Paraguay Stun Germany on Penalties to Reach World Cup Round of 16

Paraguay Stun Germany on Penalties to Reach World Cup Round of 16

Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, eliminating Germany with a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout victory after a 1-1 draw following extra time in their Round of 32 clash in Foxborough.

The result marks the first time in World Cup history that Germany have lost a penalty shootout.

Paraguay took a surprise lead in the first half through Julio Enciso, whose header put the South Americans ahead.

Germany responded in the 54th minute as Kai Havertz found the equaliser to force the match into extra time.

The Germans appeared to have scored the winner during extra time, but a header by Jonathan Tah was ruled out following a VAR review.

With the match still level after 120 minutes, the contest was decided by penalties. Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero, saving two German spot-kicks before José Canale converted the decisive penalty to seal a famous victory.

The historic triumph sends Paraguay into the Round of 16, while four-time champions Germany bow out of the tournament in one of the competition’s biggest shocks.

Paraguay Stun Germany on Penalties to Reach World Cup Round of 16