Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating four-time champions Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, securing a place in the Round of 16.
Paraguay booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time. The victory marked one of the tournament’s biggest surprises as the South Americans eliminated the four-time world champions from the competition.
Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead late in the first half before Kai Havertz equalised for Germany early in the second half to force extra time.
Neither side found a winning goal over 120 minutes, sending the contest to penalties. Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill made two crucial saves during the shootout before José Canale converted the decisive spot kick to seal a 4-3 victory. The defeat was Germany’s first-ever loss in a FIFA World Cup penalty shootout.
Germany dominated possession and created several scoring opportunities but struggled to break down Paraguay’s disciplined defence. A goal for Germany during extra time was ruled out, and the European side ultimately failed to capitalise on its territorial advantage. The result sends Paraguay into the Round of 16, where they will face either France or Sweden.
Paraguay celebrated a historic qualification following the dramatic shootout victory, while Germany exited the tournament after falling short in the knockout stage despite entering the match as favourites.
The victory represents one of Paraguay’s most memorable FIFA World Cup performances and keeps their 2026 campaign alive, while Germany’s hopes of ending a long wait for another world title came to an end in dramatic fashion.