MONTERREY (HOL) — The European presence at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has suffered two consecutive monumental blows after both Germany and the Netherlands were eliminated in the round of 32 knockout phase within hours of each other.
The double exit of the traditional footballing giants marks the most significant day of upsets in the tournament so far, as both nations fell to non-European opposition in tense, extended fixtures.
The Netherlands national football team became the latest high-profile casualty after losing a grueling encounter against Morocco at the Monterrey Stadium. The Dutch had initially broken the deadlock in the second half through a clinical finish from Cody Gakpo, putting Ronald Koeman’s side on the brink of qualification. However, a resilient Moroccan side pushed forward and found a dramatic equalizer deep into stoppage time when Issa Diop headed home in the 91st minute, forcing the game into extra time tied at 1-1.
Unable to be separated after 120 minutes of play, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout. Morocco held their nerve from the spot, dealing a devastating blow to the Dutch squad who exit the competition despite an unbeaten run in normal time during the group stages.
The Dutch disappointment closely followed a similarly stunning departure for the Germany national football team. Julian Nagelsmann’s side was sent home early by a disciplined Paraguayan team after their round of 32 clash also ended 1-1 following extra time. Germany ultimately crumbled in the resulting penalty shootout, condemning the four-time world champions to their earliest World Cup exit in decades.
The consecutive departures of Germany and the Netherlands leave UEFA with fewer representatives than anticipated heading into the round of 16, as regional competitors adjust to the fiercely competitive nature of the expanded 48-team tournament format.
