Paraguay defeat Germany in penalty shootout

The 2026 World Cup produced its first major shock as Paraguay eliminated four-time champions Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout, booking their place in the last 16 after a 1–1 draw that stretched through 120 tense minutes.

At the Boston Stadium, Germany dominated possession from the outset but were punished just before half-time when Julio Enciso struck in the 42nd minute to give Paraguay a surprise lead. Germany responded early in the second half, with Kai Havertz rising to head home the equaliser in the 54th minute, restoring parity and setting up a fiercely contested battle.

From that point, the match tilted heavily in Germany’s favour in terms of attacking intent. Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sané and Havertz repeatedly tested Paraguay’s defensive structure, yet the South Americans held firm with disciplined organisation and relentless blocking inside the box. Their approach was simple and effective: absorb pressure and deny space.

The breakthrough nearly came in extra time when Jonathan Tah headed the ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed following a foul on the Paraguayan goalkeeper in the build-up. That moment summed up Germany’s frustration on a night when fine margins proved decisive.

With the score still level after extra time, the match moved into a penalty shootout. Germany, historically strong in such situations, began poorly. Havertz saw his opening effort saved, setting the tone for a nervy series. Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala converted, but inconsistency elsewhere proved costly as Germany faltered at key moments.

Paraguay matched them stride for stride, keeping themselves alive through composed finishing. After five penalties each, the contest stood at 3–3, forcing sudden death.

It was there that the match tilted decisively. José Canale held his nerve to score for Paraguay, while Jonathan Tah sent his effort over the bar, sealing Germany’s exit in painful fashion.

Goalkeeper Orlando Hill emerged as the defining figure of the night. He made six saves during regular and extra time and produced two crucial stops in the shootout, repeatedly frustrating Germany’s forwards and standing tall under relentless pressure.

For Paraguay, the victory marks a landmark achievement, continuing their impressive resurgence on the world stage after a long absence from the tournament’s latter stages. For Germany, however, it is another disappointing chapter, following early exits in recent editions, as their campaign ends abruptly in the first knockout round.