Omanghana
Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by eliminating four-time champions Germany with a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory after an intense 1-1 draw following extra time in their Round of 32 clash at Boston Stadium.
The result marks the first time Germany has ever been defeated in a penalty shootout at a FIFA Men’s World Cup, ending a remarkable record and raising fresh questions about the future of head coach Julian Nagelsmann after another disappointing tournament exit.
Paraguay Strike Against the Run of Play
Germany dominated possession throughout much of the first half, controlling nearly 79 percent of the ball and creating several promising opportunities.
Despite their dominance, it was Paraguay who broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute.
Miguel Almirón surged forward before delivering an inviting cross into the penalty area, where Julio Enciso rose above the German defense to power a superb header beyond veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, giving the South Americans a surprise lead before halftime.
Havertz Restores Parity
Germany responded positively after the break and found an equalizer in the 54th minute.
Florian Wirtz delivered a dangerous cross toward the near post, where Kai Havertz reacted quickly to redirect the ball into the net, bringing the European giants back on level terms.
Both teams continued to create chances during regulation time, but neither side was able to find a decisive second goal.
VAR Drama in Extra Time
Germany believed they had completed the comeback during the first period of extra time when defender Jonathan Tah headed home from a corner.
However, celebrations were cut short after a lengthy Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review.
Officials ruled out the goal, determining that Waldemar Anton had illegally impeded Paraguay’s goalkeeper during the build-up, leaving the match tied at 1-1 and setting up a tense penalty shootout.
Orlando Gill Emerges as Paraguay’s Hero
The shootout delivered more drama as Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill made an immediate impact by saving Germany’s opening penalty from Kai Havertz.
Germany’s struggles from the penalty spot continued when Nick Woltemade saw his effort stopped, while Jonathan Tah blasted the decisive kick over the crossbar.
Paraguay also missed opportunities to seal victory earlier in the shootout, but defender José Canale held his nerve during sudden death, calmly converting the winning penalty to secure a famous 4-3 triumph.
The final kick sparked jubilant celebrations among Paraguay’s players and supporters as the team completed one of the tournament’s greatest surprises.
Historic Victory for Paraguay
The victory is one of the most significant in Paraguay’s football history.
Ranked 41st in the FIFA World Rankings, Paraguay overcame a German side ranked 10th in the world to book a place in the Round of 16.
For Germany, the defeat represents a historic setback, ending their unbeaten record in FIFA World Cup penalty shootouts and intensifying scrutiny of Julian Nagelsmann’s leadership following an early exit from the competition.
Paraguay Await Next Opponent
Paraguay will now turn its attention to the Round of 16, where it will face either France or Sweden on Saturday, July 4, at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
With confidence soaring after eliminating one of football’s traditional powerhouses, Paraguay will be hoping to continue its remarkable World Cup journey and reach the quarterfinals for the first time in the modern era.
Source: Omanghana
