There's something wrong in Germany, and the biggest one is Brazilian star Ancelotti.

The World Cup has entered its knockout phase, delivering dramatic results and unexpected twists that have captivated fans around the globe. From the outset, the tournament has been marked by high-stakes matches and unpredictable outcomes, challenging traditional powerhouses and elevating underdogs. In the first four games of the knockout stage, two matches were decided by goals in added time—Canada vs. Japan 1-0 and Brazil vs. Japan 2-1—and two others ended in penalty shootouts. This pattern has set the tone for a tournament where favorites are falling and surprises are emerging at every turn.

Among the most notable developments was Germany’s shocking defeat to Paraguay, marking their first loss to a non-European team since 1990. The result left many questioning whether the German squad, once considered invincible, is facing internal issues or simply struggling to adapt to the evolving style of play. Meanwhile, Morocco stunned Netherlands in a thrilling match, proving that African teams can now compete with European giants. Brazil, meanwhile, reaffirmed its status as one of the world's top teams with a convincing victory over Japan, showcasing both technical skill and tactical discipline.

Fans' attention has turned toward Croatia's upcoming clash against Portugal, which promises to be a pivotal moment for the team. Croatia, having climbed back into contention after a tough group stage, faces a formidable opponent in Portugal, who has consistently performed well throughout the tournament. The question remains: will Croatia take the initiative from the start, or will they rely on proven strength? Analysts suggest that coach Dalic must balance boldness with caution, ensuring his players remain focused while avoiding unnecessary risks.

In a recent episode of *Mundocast*, hosts Mario Rac and Tvrtko Puljić dissected the tournament's most intriguing moments. They highlighted how the gap between European and other continental teams has narrowed significantly, attributing this shift to improved performance levels in South America and Africa. Japan, despite its strong organization and determination, continues to face challenges, particularly in terms of mental resilience. Their repeated late-game collapses—such as losing to Belgium in 2018, Croatia in 2022, and Brazil in this year’s tournament—have raised questions about their ability to maintain composure under pressure.

One of the standout performances came from Brazil, where manager Ancelotti has made a significant impact. Despite initial skepticism, Ancelotti has managed to instill confidence in his players, particularly the younger generation. His decision to include Neymar, even when he wasn’t fully fit, has served as a motivational boost for the team. Puljić praised Ancelotti’s leadership, noting that Brazil’s structured defense and cohesive teamwork have been key factors in their success. “Ancelotti is the biggest star of this World Cup,” he said, emphasizing the role of the Italian tactician in transforming Brazil into a dominant force.

Meanwhile, France has emerged as a strong contender, with analysts suggesting that the team is more powerful than ever. While they did not win the previous World Cups, their current squad appears more balanced and resilient. The contrast between France and other European powers such as England and Spain highlights the shifting dynamics within the continent. Additionally, the emergence of players like Luka Modric has challenged the notion that older stars like Cristiano Ronaldo are the sole driving forces behind national success.

As the tournament progresses, the focus will undoubtedly remain on the Croatia-Portugal match, which could determine whether the Balkan nation advances further in the competition. With so much uncertainty surrounding the outcome of each game, the World Cup continues to deliver excitement and unpredictability, keeping fans engaged and eager to see what happens next.