FIFA World Cup 2026: Paraguay Stun Germany in Penalty Thriller

Paraguay produced one of the shocks of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by eliminating four-time champions Germany after a dramatic penalty shootout in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Gustavo Alfaro’s men held their nerve to secure a 4-3 victory on spot-kicks following a tense 1-1 draw after 120 minutes.

Julio Enciso gave Paraguay a first-half lead with a powerful header, marking the nation’s first-ever goal in the World Cup knockout stage.

Germany responded after the breakthrough Kai Havertz, who converted a cross from Florian Wirtz to level the contest.

Despite sustained pressure from Julian Nagelsmann’s side, Paraguay’s resolute defence, marshalled by Orlando Gill, kept the scoreline intact.

Germany thought they had found a late winner through Jonathan Tah, but the effort was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.

With penalties required, Germany elected to shoot first, only for Havertz’s opening attempt to be saved by Gill.

The shootout swung back and forth before Jose Canales calmly converted the decisive kick to send La Albirroja into the Round of 16.

Paraguay’s defensive masterclass and Gill’s heroics earned him the Player of the Match, while Alfaro’s side now look ahead to a clash with the winner of France v Sweden in Philadelphia on 4 July.