World Cup 2026: Paraguay Knock Germany Out on Penalties
Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by eliminating four-time champions Germany on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Foxborough. José Canale converted the decisive kick as Paraguay won the shootout 4-3, securing a place in the Round of 16 after 120 tense minutes at Boston Stadium.
- Score: Paraguay 1-1 Germany (4-3 pens)
- Venue: Boston Stadium, Foxborough
- Date: June 30, 2026
- Key Moment: Jonathan Tah’s extra-time goal disallowed by VAR
Gill Leads Paraguay Through Dramatic Shootout
Germany took the first penalty, but Gill correctly read Havertz’s delayed run-up and saved his low attempt. Maurício and Gustavo Gómez converted Paraguay’s opening kicks, while Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala scored for Germany. Matías Galarza then calmly sent Neuer the wrong way to give Paraguay a 3-2 advantage.
Gill strengthened Paraguay’s position by diving low to his right to stop Woltemade. Antonio Sanabria then missed the chance to end the contest when he sent his penalty wide. Nadiem Amiri converted to level the shootout at 3-3 before Neuer saved Fabián Balbuena’s effort. Germany appeared to have regained control, but Tah fired the next penalty well over the crossbar.
Canale made no mistake with the final kick, driving his effort past Neuer to complete Paraguay’s 4-3 shootout victory. The result ended Germany’s campaign in the Round of 32 and delivered Paraguay’s first appearance in the World Cup’s last 16 since 2010.
Key Player Stats
| Player | Stat |
|---|---|
| Orlando Gill (GK) | 2 penalty saves, 5 crucial saves in regulation |
| Julio Enciso | 1 goal, 3 direct goal contributions in tournament |
| Kai Havertz | 1 goal, 3 goals in tournament |
| José Canale | Decisive penalty in shootout |
Enciso Punishes Germany Before Havertz Responds
Germany controlled possession throughout the opening half but struggled to create clear chances against Paraguay’s compact defensive structure. Paraguay scored against the run of play in the 42nd minute. Miguel Almirón helped keep the attack alive following a corner before Galarza crossed into the area for Enciso, who directed a downward header beyond Neuer. It was Paraguay’s first goal in a World Cup knockout match and Enciso’s third direct goal contribution of the tournament.
Germany increased the pressure after the interval and equalized in the 54th minute. Florian Wirtz delivered an accurate cross from the left, and Havertz guided a header into the bottom corner for his third goal of the competition. Julian Nagelsmann introduced Musiala, Leon Goretzka and Woltemade as Germany pushed for a winner, but Gill repeatedly protected Paraguay’s goal. The goalkeeper produced one of his best saves in the 78th minute, reacting quickly to keep out another Havertz header near the right post.
Tah Goal Disallowed In Extra Time
Germany continued to dominate territory during extra time and thought they had completed the comeback in the 102nd minute. Tah rose above the Paraguay defence to head in Nathaniel Brown’s corner, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review. Waldemar Anton was judged to have blocked Gill as the goalkeeper attempted to reach the ball.
Germany finished with sustained pressure, including a late headed attempt from Anton that Gill collected on the goal line, but Paraguay survived to force the first penalty shootout of the tournament. Gill then delivered again from 12 yards, while Paraguay’s defenders held their nerve during the decisive moments.
What’s Next
Paraguay will now prepare for the next round after eliminating one of the tournament’s most successful nations. Germany, meanwhile, exit their first World Cup knockout campaign since winning the trophy in 2014. Paraguay’s reward is a Round of 16 clash, with their opponent to be determined by other group results. The team will look to build on this historic upset and continue their dream run.
Where to Watch
Fans can catch the Round of 16 matches live on Fox Sports (USA), Sky Sports (UK), and Sony Sports Network (India). Streaming options include FuboTV, Sling TV, and JioCinema. Check local listings for broadcast times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Paraguay beat Germany on penalties?
Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved two penalties in the shootout, while Germany’s Jonathan Tah missed the crucial spot-kick, allowing José Canale to seal the victory.
What was the score in the Paraguay vs Germany World Cup 2026 match?
The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Julio Enciso scoring for Paraguay and Kai Havertz equalizing for Germany. Paraguay won 4-3 on penalties.
When did Paraguay last reach the World Cup Round of 16?
Paraguay last reached the Round of 16 in 2010, when they advanced to the quarter-finals before losing to Spain.
How many World Cups has Germany won?
Germany have won four World Cups (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014). This is their earliest exit since 2018.
For more on international football, check out our coverage of India’s T20 series and IPL 2026 updates.
