Paraguay's hero Gill: 'We eliminated a champion'

Orlando Gill, hailed as Paraguay's hero, propelled his nation into the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup with a stunning penalty shootout performance against Germany. Gill, the goalkeeper for Argentina's San Lorenzo, saved two crucial spot-kicks, ensuring Paraguay's advancement.

"Thanks to God I could save two penalties that were fundamental for the qualification. We eliminated a champion, and this is for all the Paraguayan people," Gill declared after the match. He emphasized the immense emotion of the victory, describing the game as very complicated.

Gill reflected on the match's progression, noting the importance of taking the lead and then defending it. "It was a very complicated match. We knew how to hold them, we opened the scoring, we managed to hold the draw, and thanks to God we won in the penalty shootout," he added, highlighting the team's resilience.

Paraguay is now set to face either France or Sweden in Philadelphia on July 4 for a place in the quarterfinals. The team's dramatic victory has ignited national pride, with Gill's heroics cementing his place in Paraguayan football history.