Martinelli came from the bench to score the winning goal as Brazil came from behind to defeat Japan 2-1 in Houston. It was one of the three exciting matches on Day 19 of the 2026 World Cup with the other two resulting in upsets.

Kaishu Sano scored for Japan in the 29th minute but Casemiro headed in the equalizer in the 56th minute – the cross coming from Arsenal Gabriel Maghales. In the 5th minutes of added time, Martinelli scored the winner to break the Japanese hearts.

In the next game, Paraguay knocked out former World Champions Germany in the round of 32. Julio Encisco took the lead for Paraguay against the run of play in the 42nd minute before Kai Havertz equalized via a header after the break in the 54th minute. With no goals, the game was decided on penalties with the Germans losing 3-4. They have lost a World Cup shootout for the first time since 1982.

There was more to come in few hours. Morocco came from behind to knockout the Netherlands in Monterrey. Cody Gakpo had scored what looked like a winner in the 72nd minute but Issa Diop scored a 91st goal to tie the game for Morocco. Morocco edged out the Orange boys 3-2 on penalties and would face Canada in the next round.

With the first set of heavyweight upsets, the big teams will be weary of the “small” teams as the World Cup progresses. The underdogs are holding on, catching the favourites on the break and breaking hearts.

Today, the Ivoriens take on the Vikings of Norway, France play Sweden while Mexico play Ecuador. Are we going to have upsets today? I think the favourites today will not take prisoners.

Predictions: Cote d’Ivoire 1-2 Norway, France 3-1 Sweden, Mexico 2-0 Ecuador.