Two leading European teams, Germany and the Netherlands, ended their runs at the 2026 World Cup after losing in penalty shootouts. According to RBC-Ukraine, this came as a real shock.
A Historic Setback for the German National Team
In the Round of 16, Germany faced Paraguay. Regular time ended with a 1-1 tie after goals by Julio Enciso and Kai Havertz. During extra time, the video assistant referee disallowed a goal by Jonathan Tah, and Paraguay won the penalty shootout 4–3. This was Germany’s first defeat in a penalty shootout at the World Cup.
Paraguay advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time in 16 years, where they will face the winner of the France–Sweden match.
African Drama for the Netherlands
The Netherlands also suffered a defeat, this time against Morocco. The match ended in a 1–1 draw, thanks to goals by Cody Gakpo and Paolo Diop. Morocco won the penalty shootout 3–2.
