Germany crashed out of the World Cup in the early hours of Tuesday after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay in Boston, a match that ended in fury over a disallowed goal and prompted a pointed remark from Jurgen Klopp.
The score was 1-1 after extra time, with Paraguay winning the shootout 4-3 as Jose Canale stepped up to score the decisive spot-kick. But Germany's players were incensed after seeing a goal ruled out by VAR in extra time. Jonathan Tah had powered home a header at the back post, but referee Jalal Jayed overturned the goal after a review judged that Waldemar Anton fouled Orlando Gill in the build-up.
“Germany and Netherlands crashed out of the World Cup on penalties, with Klopp aiming a dig at Arsenal over a disallowed goal.”
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, now Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer, aimed a subtle dig at Arsenal in the aftermath, claiming the Gunners "scored 60% of their goals that way" en route to the Premier League title last season.
The exit piles pressure on Julian Nagelsmann's future, though the Germany manager confirmed post-match that he will not step down from his role.
Elsewhere, Brazil progressed to the next round with a 2-1 comeback win against Japan in Houston. Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead on the half hour, but Casemiro equalised and Gabriel Martinelli scored a stoppage-time winner.
Overnight, Morocco also advanced, booking their place in the last 16 after knocking out the Netherlands on penalties. The Dutch defeat was made more emotional by Cody Gakpo's goal celebration, which came after a difficult week off the pitch, according to broadcaster Rick Edwards and Lloyd Griffith.
Germany and the Netherlands join a growing list of early casualties as the World Cup continues to deliver shocks.