Paraguay Aims for Upset Against Germany in World Cup Round of 16

Paraguay is set to challenge four-time world champions Germany in a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash at the 2026 World Cup. The match, scheduled for Monday at 4:30 PM local time in Foxborough, presents Paraguay with an opportunity to achieve its own historic feat, much like Ecuador did by defeating Germany in the group stage. Paraguay qualified for the knockout rounds by finishing third in Group D, behind the United States and Australia. The team, led by Gustavo Alfaro, aims to surpass its best-ever World Cup performance, reaching the quarterfinals in South Africa in 2010. After a 16-year absence from the tournament, the 'Albirrojos' are determined not to let their journey end prematurely. The return of key midfielder Miguel Almirón, who served a suspension for a red card, bolsters Paraguay's lineup. The expected formation includes Orlando Gill in goal, with a defense of Juan José Cáceres, Gustavo Velázquez, Gustavo Gómez, Omar Alderete, and Alexandro Maidana. The midfield will feature Andrés Cubas, Matías Galarza, Almirón, and Julio Enciso, supporting striker Gabriel Ávalos. Germany, meanwhile, faces significant pressure after a mixed group stage, including their surprising loss to Ecuador. Despite securing their group's top spot, the defeat raised doubts about their form. Coach Julian Nagelsmann's side will field Manuel Neuer in goal, protected by Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Raum or Nathanael Brown. The midfield and attack will likely consist of Felix Nmecha, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Leroy Sané, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, and Kai Havertz. The match will be officiated by Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed.