Paraguay pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, eliminating four-time champions Germany on penalties after a dramatic 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 clash, on Monday.
The South Americans made a bright start and took the lead in the first half through Julio Enciso, whose header beat veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer after Germany failed to deal with a cross into the box.
Germany responded strongly after the break and eventually found an equaliser through Kai Havertz, who nodded home from a Florian Wirtz delivery to make it 1-1. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, the Germans were repeatedly frustrated by Paraguay’s disciplined defence and goalkeeper Orlando Gil.
Germany thought they had secured victory in extra time when Jonathan Tah headed home from a corner, but the goal was ruled out following a VAR review for a foul on the Paraguayan goalkeeper.
With neither side able to find a winner after 120 minutes, the contest was decided by a penalty shootout, where Paraguay held their nerve to complete a famous victory and send the 2014 world champions crashing out of the tournament.
The result marks Paraguay’s biggest World Cup achievement in years and secures their place in the Round of 16, while Germany’s campaign ends in disappointment despite entering the knockout stage as one of the favourites.
