Paraguay Shock Germany on Penalties to Reach FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16
Foxborough, June 29: Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by defeating Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a thrilling 1-1 draw following extra time in the Round of 32.
Paraguay took the lead in the first half through Julio Enciso, but Germany responded early in the second half as Kai Havertz headed home the equaliser. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Germany failed to find a winner, with one goal ruled out after a VAR review.
The match went to penalties, where Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero with two crucial saves. José Canale calmly converted the decisive spot-kick, sending Paraguay into the Round of 16 and eliminating four-time world champions Germany in dramatic fashion. It was Germany’s first-ever defeat in a FIFA World Cup penalty shootout.
Paraguay will now face the winner of France vs Sweden in the Round of 16
