Paraguay script one of World Cup’s greatest upsets by knocking out Germany

Paraguay produced one of the most memorable victories in their football history after eliminating four-time world champions Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout to reach the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Paraguay has declared June 30 a national holiday to commemorate their win over Germany.

The South Americans, who advanced from the group stage as one of the best third-placed teams, defied the odds against a Germany side that had topped Group E and entered the knockout stage as clear favourites.

Germany dominated possession from the opening whistle, completing more than 240 passes in the first half while limiting Paraguay to very little of the ball. However, despite their control, Julian Nagelsmann’s side struggled to create clear chances.

Paraguay made Germany pay for their wastefulness when Julio Enciso headed home after a swift counterattack to give his side a surprise lead before halftime. Germany finally found a breakthrough nine minutes into the second half as Kai Havertz equalised with a glancing header from Florian Wirtz’s cross.

The European giants continued to press for a winner and believed they had found it in extra time when Jonathan Tah scored from a corner. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was ruled out for a foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

The match eventually went to penalties, where Germany’s famous shootout record deserted them. Jonathan Tah, Nick Woltemade and Kai Havertz all failed to convert, allowing Jose Canale to score the decisive penalty and spark wild celebrations among Paraguay’s players and supporters.

The victory marks Paraguay’s biggest World Cup triumph and sends them into the Round of 16, where they will face either France or Sweden.

For Germany, meanwhile, another disappointing World Cup campaign raises fresh questions about the future of the national team after yet another early exit from football’s biggest tournament.