Paraguay have pulled off one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after dumping Germany out on penalties to reach the round of 16.
The South Americans defeated the four-time world champions 4-3 in a dramatic shootout after both sides battled to a tense 1-1 draw at the end of extra time.
Jose Canale became the hero for Paraguay when he calmly converted the decisive sudden-death penalty, sparking wild celebrations among his teammates and supporters.
Goalkeeper Orlando Gill was also outstanding for Paraguay, saving crucial penalties from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade as Germany’s campaign ended in heartbreak.
Jonathan Tah, whose extra-time goal had earlier been ruled out by VAR, then blasted Germany’s decisive spot-kick over the crossbar to complete a miserable night for Julian Nagelsmann’s side.
Germany had gone into the knockout clash as favourites, but Paraguay showed discipline, courage and remarkable defensive resilience to frustrate one of football’s most decorated nations.
The South Americans struck first in the 42nd minute when Julio Enciso rose brilliantly to head home Matias Galarza’s inviting cross, silencing the German fans and giving Paraguay a shock lead before half-time.
Germany responded after the break and found their equaliser in the 54th minute. Havertz finished from close range after a clever delivery from Florian Wirtz, restoring parity and setting up a tense second half.
The Germans dominated possession for long periods and pushed hard for a winner, but Gill stood firm in goal, producing important saves to deny Havertz, Joshua Kimmich and other German attackers.
The biggest moment before penalties came in extra time when Tah appeared to have completed Germany’s comeback with a powerful header.
However, after a VAR review, the goal was ruled out for a foul in the box, handing Paraguay a major lifeline.
With neither side able to find a winner, the contest was forced into penalties, where Paraguay held their nerve better than the German machine.
Gill’s saves gave Paraguay the platform, and Canale delivered the final blow from the spot to send Germany crashing out of the tournament.
The result will go down as one of Paraguay’s greatest World Cup nights and one of Germany’s most painful exits.
Paraguay now march into the round of 16, while Germany are left to reflect on a stunning collapse after failing to turn their dominance into victory.
