Paraguay Oust Germany After Epic Penalty Shootout

Paraguay stunned four-time world champions Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout after a hard-fought 1-1 draw over 120 minutes, securing their place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

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Despite Germany dominating possession throughout the contest, Gustavo Alfaro's side delivered a disciplined defensive performance to frustrate Julian Nagelsmann's attack. Leroy Sané, Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz found little space against an inspired Paraguay backline led by goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

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Against the run of play, Paraguay struck just before halftime. After Manuel Neuer punched away a corner, Matias Galarza delivered a superb cross that Julio Enciso powered home with a clinical header to give La Albirroja a surprise lead.

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Germany responded strongly after  the interval and equalised through Kai Havertz, who headed home Florian Wirtz's pinpoint cross. The Europeans continued to press for a winner, but Paraguay remained resilient. Jonathan Tah thought he had scored the decisive goal late in the match, only for it to be ruled out following a foul by Waldemar Anton on Orlando Gill.

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With neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the match went to penalties. Germany's hopes suffered an immediate setback when Gill saved Havertz's opening spot-kick. After several missed penalties from both teams, José Canales calmly converted the decisive penalty to send Paraguay into the last 16.

Chosen by the fans: Orlando Gill, your @MichelobUltra Superior Player of the Match. 👏

#FIFAWorldCup #SuperiorPOTM pic.twitter.com/IYC2vAp2Ag

— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) June 29, 2026

Player of the Match:Orlando Gill (Paraguay)

The Paraguay goalkeeper produced a heroic display, making several crucial saves during the match before denying two German penalties in the shootout to guide La Albirroja into the Round of 16.

Paraguay will now face the winner of France vs Sweden in Philadelphia on July 4.

Post-Match Reactions

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann admitted his side failed to capitalize on their dominance.
"There's a real sense of dejection in the dressing room. We took too long to make our opponent chase the game. Our build-up play was too slow, and we should have settled the game before penalties."

Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill dedicated the memorable victory to his nation after producing two crucial penalty saves.

"It's an immense thrill. It was a tough match, but we managed to hold on. We studied every penalty taker, and thankfully I was able to save two penalties. Eliminating a world champion is a privilege. This victory is for all Paraguayans."

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