Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by eliminating four-time champions Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout after a hard-fought 1-1 draw over 120 minutes.
The South Americans delivered a disciplined defensive display to frustrate Germany throughout the contest before goalkeeper Orlando Gill starred in the shootout to send La Albirroja into the Round of 16.
Germany dominated possession from the opening whistle, with Leroy Sané, Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz repeatedly probing for an opening. However, Paraguay’s well-organised defence, marshalled by Gill, stood firm and denied the Europeans any clear breakthrough.
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Despite spending much of the first half under pressure, Paraguay struck first just before the interval. Manuel Neuer punched away an outswinging corner, but the South Americans quickly recycled possession. MatÃas Galarza delivered a pinpoint cross into the box where an unmarked Julio Enciso powered a header beyond the German goalkeeper to hand Paraguay a surprise lead.
Germany responded positively after the restart and restored parity early in the second half. Florian Wirtz delivered an inviting cross from the left, allowing Kai Havertz to head home and bring Julian Nagelsmann’s side level.
The equaliser shifted momentum firmly in Germany’s favour as they pressed relentlessly for a winner. Paraguay retreated into a compact defensive shape, absorbing wave after wave of attacks while waiting for counterattacking opportunities that rarely materialised.
Nagelsmann introduced several attacking players in a final bid to avoid penalties, and Germany believed they had found the decisive goal when Jonathan Tah scored late on. However, the effort was ruled out after Waldemar Anton was adjudged to have fouled Gill in the build-up.
With neither side able to find a breakthrough in extra time, the match was decided by penalties.
Germany’s shootout began disastrously as Gill produced an excellent save to deny Havertz. After a tense exchange of successful conversions and missed spot-kicks, José Canales calmly converted the decisive penalty to secure a famous victory for Paraguay.
The win sends Paraguay into the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the France-Sweden match in Philadelphia on July 4.