Germany and Netherlands crash out on pens, but Brazil survive scare to reach last 16!

In a thrilling day of World Cup action, Morocco achieved a historic victory by defeating the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout, which saw the match end 1-1 after extra time and 3-2 in penalties. The match was highlighted by an emotional moment for Dutch player Cody Gakpo, who scored the opener in the 74th minute but faced heartbreak as Morocco equalized in injury time through Issa Diop. The standout performance continued in the shootout, where several Dutch players, including Justin Clivert, missed crucial penalties, leading Morocco to victory and a spot in the last 16, where they will face Canada.

In another match, Germany suffered a shocking elimination, losing to Paraguay in their first-ever World Cup penalty shootout. Despite dominating possession, Germany could not convert opportunities and ended the match 1-1 after extra time. Germany's Kai Havertz equalized after Paraguay initially took the lead. In penalties, Jonathan Tarr's miss proved decisive as Paraguay advanced to face either France or Sweden.

Brazil also progressed through a nail-biting encounter against Japan, scoring a last-minute winner through Gabriel Martinelli after coming back from a goal down. Japan’s Kaishu Sano had initially put them ahead, but Brazil's perseverance secured a dramatic 2-1 win, setting them up for a match against Ivory Coast or Norway.

As England prepares for their last 32 fixture against DR Congo in Atlanta, the team remains focused and relaxed, despite witnessing the struggles of football giants in previous matches. With temperatures expected to soar during the game, players are looking to adapt to the conditions. Fans and media alike await the kickoff as England aims to avoid the pitfalls that eliminated other top teams in this expanded World Cup format.

Tonight, two more knockout matches take place, with Ivory Coast facing Norway and France competing against Sweden. Both matches are anticipated to showcase notable talents, including Erling Haaland for Norway and Kylian Mbappé for France, adding excitement to the tournament's unfolding drama.

On a day when two of the so-called 'big teams' fell in penalty shootouts, Hayley McQueen rounds up everything that’s been going on overnight at the World Cup. Congratulations to Paraguay and Morocco who advance to the last 16, after their dramatic victories over Germany and the Netherlands respectively. Meanwhile, Brazil leave it late, but make it through in normal time against Japan. Plus, as England prepare to fly to Atlanta to face DR Congo on Wednesday, we find out what awaits them there.