Paraguay president hails World Cup win over Germany as 'lesson in love for homeland'

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña celebrated the national football team's stunning World Cup victory over Germany, calling it a "lesson in love for the homeland" that has given the country "magical days."

"What a lesson in love for the homeland our red-and-white lions brought us," Peña declared in a speech to Congress during his annual management report. He added that "magical days" were experienced, during which "the whole world's eyes were on Paraguay."

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What a lesson in love for the homeland our red-and-white lions brought us.

The Albirroja, Paraguay's national team, eliminated four-time champion Germany from the World Cup and advanced to the round of 16 after a 3-4 penalty shootout win. Goalkeeper Orlando Gill was a key player, saving shots from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade. The match had ended 1-1 in regular and extra time, with goals from Julio Enciso and Havertz.

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We lived magical days, in which the whole world's eyes were on Paraguay.

"Thank you for showing us the path to a better Paraguay, one of courage, discipline, tenacious struggle, and teamwork over individual talent. Thank you for raising Paraguay's name so high in the world. And I apologize, I apologize, because those of us responsible for this country are not always up to the task," Peña continued.

Paraguay, returning to the World Cup after a 16-year absence, is set to face tournament favorite France on Saturday in Philadelphia.

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Thank you for showing us the path to a better Paraguay, one of courage, discipline, tenacious struggle, and teamwork over individual talent. Thank you for raising Paraguay's name so high in the world. And I apologize, I apologize, because those of us responsible for this country are not always up to the task.