Germany, the group winner of Group E, had an outstanding performance in the group stage. With 2 wins and 1 loss, they accumulated 6 points, scoring 10 goals and conceding 4. They secured the top spot in the group with a goal - difference advantage, and advanced to the World Cup knockout stage as the group first for the first time in 12 years. In the first round, they thrashed Curaçao 7 - 1, showing explosive offensive power. In the second round, they defeated Côte d'Ivoire 2 - 1 and locked in their knockout - stage spot in advance. However, in the last round, they lost 1 - 2 to Ecuador. After rotating the lineup, their defense showed weaknesses, and their unbeaten record in the group stage was ended. Paraguay, which advanced as the best third - placed team from Group D, had a mixed group - stage campaign. They had 1 win, 1 draw, and 1 loss, accumulating 4 points. In the first round, they suffered a heavy 1 - 4 defeat to the host, the United States, with their defense collapsing. In t
World Cup