The Germany Netherlands World Cup exits have shocked fans as the tournament moves into its next stage. Germany suffered a premature exit against Paraguay after a penalty shootout.
Brazil also secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Japan on Monday. Gabriel Martinelli scored the winning goal in stoppage time.
The Netherlands also left the tournament after a tense 1-1 draw with Morocco on Tuesday. The Atlas Lions then won the penalty shootout.
With Germany and the Netherlands both out in the last 32, the World Cup now has room for a potential dark horse.
Ancelotti: ‘Our most complete game’
“This was the most complete game we have played [at the World Cup],” Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said, per Sky Sports.
“We had trouble in the first half as Japan were defending well, they were close and tight to us.
“In the second half, we overcame it, we got some space and put in crosses. This was an evolution [in tactics] for sure.
“At half-time I said to the players to be patient, because sooner or later we would score a goal. But we had to keep our shape to ensure we did not compromise the game further.
“Japan is a very good team, very organised, they create dangerous opportunities and get close (defensively). They are physical,” he added.
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