Paraguay Declares National Holiday After Historic World Cup Win Over Germany

Paraguay secured a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Germany in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, prompting President Santiago Peña to declare a national holiday for Tuesday, June 30. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Paraguay advancing for the first time since 2010. Source: hoydo; Source: infobae

What happened

Paraguay, returning to the World Cup after missing three editions, faced Germany—a four-time champion. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved penalties from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade, while José Canale converted the decisive spot-kick. Source: lavozar; Source: excelsiormx

The celebration

Minutes after the win, President Peña tweeted: "¡PARAGUAY NUNCA SE RINDE! ¡¡FERIADO CARAJO!!" The post went viral, and Vice President Pedro Alliana jokingly offered to sign the decree. Source: clarin; Source: elcaribedr The government cited a 2025 law allowing up to three special holidays per year. Source: excelsiormx

What's next

Paraguay will face the winner of France vs. Sweden in the quarterfinals on July 4 in Philadelphia. Source: infobae Coach Gustavo Alfaro praised the team's resilience: "We have a heart that never gives up."