Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup by defeating Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, securing a place in the Round of 16 and eliminating the four-time world champions.
The South Americans advanced after a disciplined defensive performance and a dramatic shootout victory, earning their first knockout-stage win at the World Cup since 2010.
Germany dominated possession from the outset, controlling 78 per cent of the ball compared to Paraguay’s 22 per cent. However, despite their territorial advantage, the Germans struggled to break down Paraguay’s well-organised defence.
Paraguay nearly made a dream start in the second minute when a corner kick forced German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer into an early save.
The breakthrough eventually came in the 42nd minute when Julio Enciso headed Paraguay into the lead.
The goal followed a corner kick that Neuer punched clear, but Germany failed to deal with the second phase of play. Miguel Almirón regained possession on the right flank before finding Matías Galarza, whose precise cross was met by Enciso with a powerful header that beat Neuer.
Germany responded early in the second half through Kai Havertz.
In the 53rd minute, Florian Wirtz threaded a low pass through Paraguay’s defence, allowing Havertz to make a perfectly timed run before calmly finishing past goalkeeper Orlando Gill to level the scores at 1-1.
Despite sustained German pressure, Paraguay remained resolute at the back, forcing the match into extra time and eventually a penalty shootout after neither side could find a winner.
Germany faltered from the spot as Kai Havertz, Nick Woltemade and Jonathan Tah all failed to convert their penalties.
Paraguay also missed two attempts, but defender José Canale held his nerve to score the decisive penalty, sealing a 4-3 shootout victory and sparking jubilant celebrations among the South American side.
The historic triumph sends Paraguay into the Round of 16, where they will face France, while Germany’s disappointing campaign comes to an abrupt end.
The victory further cements Paraguay’s status as one of the surprise packages of the tournament after overcoming one of international football’s most successful nations.
