The 2026 FIFA World Cup has been an extended affair as the football body increased the number of teams from 32 in 2022 to 48 from this edition onward. This has also resulted in the addition of a Round of 32 to the knockout stages for the first time. Although most of the results were as expected, the matches were thrilling for both neutral watchers and fans. As the Round of 32 comes to an end with Colombia’s 1-0 win over Ghana, here we look at the major talking points from this round.1. Germany and Spain: Contrasting fortunes of two champions seeking redemption
Germany's Nick Woltemade, Malick Thiaw and Nadiem Amiri react after Germany's Jonathan Tah missed a penalty during the shootout against Paraguay
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Imagn Images via REUTERS
While Spain won the World Cup held in South Africa in 2010, Germany did so in the very next edition held in Brazil in 2014. However, both of these teams had failed to win any of their knockout games since winning their respective titles. After qualifying for this edition’s knockouts, both teams were looking to change their fortunes. Spain were able to break free from their curse when they thrashed Austria 3-0. However, the Germans fell to Paraguay in penalties after the match ended 1-1 at the end of regulation time, which was the first major upset in the round. The wait for a first knockout win will have to continue till the next edition for Die Mannschaft. On a side note, Italy, who failed to qualify this year, also have not won a knockout match since they won in 2006.2. Golden Boot race: Superstars lead the pack
