Paraguay Stun Germany on Penalties to Reach FIFA World Cup Round of 16
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Paraguay scripted one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026, eliminating four-time champions Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw to book their place in the Round of 16.
The result also ended Germany's remarkable record, handing them their first-ever defeat in a FIFA World Cup penalty shootout.
How the Match Unfolded
Paraguay struck first in the 42nd minute, with Julio Enciso finding the net before halftime.
Germany responded after the break as Kai Havertz converted Florian Wirtz's cross to level the scores. Later, Jonathan Tah appeared to have scored the winner, but his header was ruled out, sending the match to penalties.
Penalty Drama
Germany's shootout got off to the worst possible start when Orlando Gill saved Havertz's opening spot-kick.
Gill produced another crucial save to deny Nick Woltemade, while Germany stayed alive thanks to Manuel Neuer, who stopped Fabian Balbuena's penalty after Antonio Sanabria had also missed a chance to seal the contest.
Paraguay finally clinched victory when Jose Canale calmly converted their third match-winning opportunity.
A Historic Upset
The victory sends Gustavo Alfaro's Paraguay into the Round of 16, while Germany bow out of the tournament after suffering their first-ever World Cup penalty shootout defeat.
Match Highlights
- Paraguay took the lead in the 42nd minute through Julio Enciso.
- Kai Havertz equalised for Germany after finishing Florian Wirtz's cross.
- Jonathan Tah had a late winner ruled out, sending the match to penalties
