Germany vs France in the Round of 16 was always going to be a tactical chess match between two of the world's best-organised national sides, and so it proved. Nagelsmann's 4-2-3-1 was designed to exploit France's transitional vulnerabilities through the half-spaces, with Wirtz and Musiala given licence to interchange and overload Deschamps' midfield three. The plan worked brilliantly in the first half — Germany's press was relentless, their goal a direct product of that structure. But France's individual quality — particularly Mbappé's ability to manufacture moments from nothing — made them perpetually dangerous. The penalty decision was harsh but correct, and it fundamentally reset the tie. In extra time, both teams showed the mental fortitude of genuine World Cup contenders. Ultimately, France's superior penalty shootout composure — a trait that has become a hallmark of this generation — proved the difference. Germany will rue Musiala's shootout miss, but this was a performance that showed they belong among the elite. France, meanwhile, look ominous: Mbappé is in the form of his life, and with Maignan commanding in goal and Kanté bossing the midfield, Les Bleus have the architecture of champions.

• Florian Wirtz registered 1 goal and 1 assist — the only player to directly contribute to both German goals
• Mbappé converted the penalty that levelled the game and scored first in the shootout — 7 direct goal contributions in 5 World Cup matches
• Neuer's save vs. Mbappé in the 103rd minute was the pivotal moment of extra time — xG on that chance: 0.71
• Maignan's shootout save from Musiala was the decisive moment — France's 4th consecutive World Cup shootout win
• Germany dominated possession (52%) but France's xG (2.4) was higher, reflecting their lethal counter-attacking efficiency
• Thuram's header was France's 4th headed goal of the tournament — the most of any team in the competition
• Germany's press achieved a 4.2 PPDA in the first half — one of the highest intensity readings of the knockout rounds