Paraguay Stuns Germany in Penalty Shootout at 2026 World Cup

Paraguay eliminated Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup, marking one of the tournament's biggest upsets. Source: lavozar, elmundoes

The Match

Paraguay defended deep and frustrated Germany, who dominated possession but lacked creativity. Julio Enciso headed Paraguay ahead in the 42nd minute from a Matías Galarza cross. Germany equalized early in the second half through Kai Havertz, who deflected Florian Wirtz's cross. Source: lavanguardia, elespanol

Key Moments

• VAR controversy: In extra time, Jonathan Tah scored for Germany, but the goal was disallowed because Waldemar Anton fouled goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Source: infobae
• Penalty heroics: Gill saved two German penalties (from Havertz and Nick Woltemade). Paraguay missed two chances to win, but Jonathan Tah fired over, and José Canale scored the decisive spot-kick. Source: clarin, elcaribedr

Aftermath

German media called the defeat a "vergonzosa eliminación" (shameful elimination) Source: lavozar, while Paraguay celebrated a historic victory. Coach Gustavo Alfaro warned against overvaluing the win: "Si sobrevaloramos esta victoria nos equivocamos." Source: elcolombiano Paraguay will face France or Sweden in the round of 16.