Paraguay celebrates historic World Cup victory over Germany with national holiday

The Paraguayan national football team etched its name in history Monday, eliminating Germany in the Round of 16 and securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals. The monumental achievement ignited widespread celebrations in Asunción, with thousands pouring into the streets, forming car caravans, and chanting in support of the Albirroja.

One of the primary gathering points was Palma Street, in front of the Pantheon of Heroes, where thousands congregated to celebrate. Social media quickly filled with images of a massive crowd, waving Paraguayan flags and occupying several blocks. Other videos captured fans united around the monument, cheering in unison for their team's advancement to the quarterfinals.

Further footage shared online depicted long lines of vehicles inching through Asunción's streets, their hazard lights flashing and horns blaring incessantly. Traffic was virtually at a standstill due to the sheer number of people celebrating. Another recording showed a highway packed with cars and supporters heading towards the capital's main celebration hubs, their journey accompanied by a collective joy that lasted for hours, marked by Paraguayan flags, team jerseys, and constant singing.

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Paraguay never gives up. Holiday, damn it!

The victory carried an extra layer of historical significance: Paraguay became the first team to defeat Germany in a World Cup penalty shootout. After a goalless draw through regulation time and extra time, the Albirroja prevailed from the spot, ending a streak Germany had maintained throughout World Cup history. The win was even more remarkable considering Germany's dominance in statistics, holding 75% possession, taking 21 shots on goal, and earning 16 corner kicks. Yet, Paraguay's defense held firm, ultimately securing their passage through penalties.

The impact of the victory was so profound that Paraguayan President Santiago Peña declared a national holiday, announcing the measure via his X account with the exclamatory "Paraguay never gives up. Holiday, damn it!". Earlier, Peña had posted another message dedicated to the team, writing, "Giant Paraguay! Today the whole country celebrates. It celebrates the victory of a team that represents the deepest part of our identity: the grit, the faith, and the strength of a people that never gives up." CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez also extended his congratulations, sharing a video.

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Giant Paraguay! Today the whole country celebrates. It celebrates the victory of a team that represents the deepest part of our identity: the grit, the faith, and the strength of a people that never gives up.