BRAZIL, GERMANY TARGET WORLD CUP LAST-16 SPOTS AS NETHERLANDS PREPARE FOR MOROCCO CLASH
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AFP
The knockout stage of the World Cup begins with several intriguing matchups as Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands, and Morocco battle for places in the last 16.
Brazil, chasing a record-extending sixth World Cup title and their first since 2002, progressed comfortably from the group stage, finishing ahead of Morocco with Vinicius Junior emerging as one of the tournament’s standout performers after scoring four goals. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s side faces a tricky test against Japan in Houston.
Despite Brazil being favourites, Japan have proven they can trouble the South Americans, having beaten them 3-2 in a friendly last October. Ancelotti has urged his players to remain focused and prepared for every scenario, including extra time and penalties, while captain Marquinhos described the previous defeat as a valuable learning experience.
Japan, who finished second in Group F behind the Netherlands, believe they have what it takes to spring an upset. Coach Hajime Moriyasu said team unity remains a key strength as his side seeks a place in the last 16, where either Ivory Coast or Norway await.
Elsewhere, Germany face Paraguay near Boston in their first World Cup knockout match since defeating Argentina in the 2014 final. Julian Nagelsmann’s men topped their group with victories over Curacao and Ivory Coast before a defeat to Ecuador.
Although Germany are not among the leading favourites for the title, Nagelsmann insists winning the tournament remains the objective. Striker Kai Havertz also expressed confidence that he, Florian Wirtz, and Jamal Musiala are close to finding their best form after mixed displays during the group stage.
Paraguay, appearing in the knockout rounds for the first time since 2010 after advancing as one of the best third-placed teams, face a daunting challenge. The winners will meet either France or Sweden in the next round.
Perhaps the most evenly balanced tie of the round sees the Netherlands take on Morocco in Monterrey, Mexico. Ranked eighth and seventh in the world respectively, both nations boast squads packed with talent from Europe’s top leagues.
Morocco’s squad includes Manchester United defender Noussair Mazraoui and forward Ismael Saibari, who starred for PSV Eindhoven last season before securing a move to Bayern Munich.
Awaiting the winner will be Canada, who reached the last 16 for the first time after captain Stephen Eustaquio scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner in a 1-0 victory over South Africa in Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Football Federation president, Yasser Al-Misehal, has resigned following the Green Falcons’ group-stage exit, despite having played a major role in securing the kingdom’s successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup.
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