Netherlands and Germany players were stunned after their elimination from the World Cup
The Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced astonishing results that have set social media ablaze with wild reactions.
On June 29, 2026, four-time champions Germany succumbed to defeat against Paraguay on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Julio Enciso’s goal was canceled out by Kai Havertz, but the minnows prevailed with a 4-3 penalty shootout win.
Soon after, the Netherlands also fell to 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco.
https://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/SportsArchive/Morocco-beat-Netherlands-to-reach-last-16-of-World-Cup-2041114
Cody Gakpo’s goal was leveled by Issa Diop in normal time, and the Atlas Lions triumphed in the shootout with a 3-2 scoreline, thanks to massive saves from goalkeeper Bono.
The elimination of the two giants, both considered favorites by many, sparked stunned reactions from social media users.
Regarding Germany, some fans admitted they did not expect Paraguay to cause an upset, even though the German team had been struggling with cohesion.
Others expressed excitement, noting that the unpredictability of football makes the game more enjoyable, and the exits of these giants serve as a wake-up call for other top nations.
Meanwhile, Morocco was hailed by fans for their attacking approach, which saw them dominate against the Dutch and ultimately claim victory. Many deemed it a fair outcome.
Read the reactions below:
Football is very funny 😁 😂. Was it not this Paraguay that USA thrashed jjust eliminate the German machine? Nobody can predict football sometimes as the underdogs can go in and do something 👀😀💯
— Israel (@Israelolly236) June 30, 2026
The first real upset of the knockouts and it's a four-time champion packing its bags. World Cups don't pay out on pedigree, they pay whoever holds their nerve through 120 minutes and five penalties. Paraguay wanted it more for exactly long enough, and that's the whole game.
— The Gilt Standard (@TheGiltStandard) June 30, 2026
Germany and Netherlands eliminated in the same night.
— Luhanda (@luhanda_munyala) June 30, 2026
The Dutch side were horrible tonight.
Germany had to be out! Struggled to enjoy this German team compared to previous ones! There was just nothing inspiring about them! It’s time Germany looks inward and see what the foundational issues are before they get relegated in football history
— See More (@hupsoma) June 30, 2026
Congratulations Maroko!
— Deru (@kangderu) June 30, 2026
What a great penalty save by Bono 🔥
I am curious. What is exactly is the issue with Germany National team. They seems to have quality players but they have become ineffective for two World Cup in row. Can’t seem to fathom out their problems.
— Höpe (@mindofope) June 29, 2026
Coach? Or identity?
Congratulations, Morocco! 🇲🇦👏
A well-deserved victory over the Netherlands.. Best of luck in the next round! ⚽All the way to Quarter Final
— Höpe (@mindofope) June 30, 2026
Back-to-back pen wins 📌
— Arthur (@TheArthur001) June 30, 2026
2022: Spain.
2026: Netherlands.
Morocco are the most composed team
from 12 yards in World Cup history.
That's why it's called the World Cup and not the Favorites Cup.
— S.Guzzman (@Siboguzzman) June 30, 2026
Their midfield is so bad lol. They weren't making it past RD16 anyways
— aileeh_1306 (@Aileeh19130) June 30, 2026
I already know Germany won't go anywhere if you watched their last match against Ecuador.
— Universe junior (@united_fan_page) June 29, 2026
Paraguay shocked the Germany 😂football is not played on paper anymore the minor countries are giving all out in the field and yielding results
— Thembinkosi Khoza (@sphezi1211) June 29, 2026