Brazil were forced to dig deep before booking their place in the Round of 16 with a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Japan in Houston.

The Blue Samurai stunned the five-time world champions by taking a first-half lead through Kaishu Sano, leaving Carlo Ancelotti's side with a mountain to climb after the break. Brazil responded through the experienced Casemiro before Gabriel Martinelli emerged as the hero, scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner to break Japanese hearts.

The victory keeps Brazil's dream of a record-extending sixth World Cup title alive, while Japan bowed out after an impressive tournament. Brazil will now face either Ivory Coast or Norway in the Round of 16.

The biggest shock of the day unfolded in Boston, where four-time world champions Germany were sensationally knocked out by Paraguay after a nerve-racking penalty shootout.

Following a tense 1-1 draw after 120 minutes, Paraguay held their nerve from the spot to claim a famous 4-3 victory on penalties. Germany, widely regarded as one of the pre-tournament favourites, struggled to impose themselves and paid the ultimate price as Paraguay celebrated one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.

Paraguay fans - FIFA

The South Americans march into the Round of 16 brimming with confidence after a memorable victory.

There was more disappointment for Europe in Monterrey, Mexico, where 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco stunned the Netherlands in another dramatic penalty shootout.

After the sides were locked at 1-1 following extra time, the Atlas Lions kept their composure to win the shootout 3-2 and continue their remarkable rise on the world stage.

Morocco will now face Canada in the Round of 16 after the Canadians ended South Africa's World Cup campaign on Sunday. The Netherlands, meanwhile, join Germany as another high-profile casualty in an unpredictable knockout phase.

Attention now shifts to another exciting day of Round of 32 action on Tuesday, with three more teams set to book their places in the Round of 16.

The action gets underway in Dallas, where Ivory Coast take on Norway. Both sides have shown flashes of quality throughout the tournament and will believe they have a genuine opportunity to extend their World Cup journeys. Kick-off is at 19:00.

Later, at 23:00, all eyes will be on East Rutherford, New Jersey, where two-time world champions France face Sweden in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the round. France remain among the favourites to lift the trophy, but Sweden have already proved they are capable of troubling any opponent.

The final match of the day sees tournament co-hosts Mexico face Ecuador in Mexico City. Roared on by a passionate home crowd, Mexico will look to continue their impressive campaign, while Ecuador will be aiming to produce another upset and secure a coveted place in the Round of 16. Kick-off is at 03:00 on Wednesday morning.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport