Paraguay Stuns Germany in World Cup Upset, Advances via Penalty Shootout

Paraguay has pulled off a stunning upset at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, eliminating pre-tournament favorite Germany in a dramatic penalty shootout. The South American nation secured its place in the Round of 16 after a grueling 1-1 draw that extended through regular and extra time, marking the first time the tournament had gone to penalties.

“

Paraguay staged a major upset by defeating pre-tournament favorite Germany in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw through regular and extra time.

The match, held at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, saw Paraguay take the lead in the first half with a goal from Julio Enciso in the 42nd minute, assisted by Mathias Galarza. Germany, however, responded after halftime, with Kai Havertz equalizing in the 54th minute from a Florian Wirtz cross. Despite Germany's efforts to find a winner, the score remained tied, forcing the game into extra time.

“

Paraguay staged a major upset by defeating pre-tournament favorite Germany in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw through regular and extra time.

In extra time, Germany thought they had found the decisive goal when Jonathan Tah headed in a corner. However, the goal was disallowed due to a foul called on Waldemar Anton against Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill. This controversial decision sent the match to penalties, a scenario that had not yet occurred in this World Cup.

“

Paraguay staged a major upset by defeating pre-tournament favorite Germany in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw through regular and extra time.

The penalty shootout was equally tense. Germany's first kicker, Havertz, had his shot saved by Paraguayan keeper Gill. While both teams converted their next two penalties, Germany faltered with their fourth and sixth kickers, with Nick Voltemade missing and Tah also failing to score. Paraguay's final penalty, taken by Jose Canale, found the back of the net, sealing a historic victory for the underdog nation. This unexpected triumph propels Paraguay into the next round, where they will face the winner of the France-Sweden match, while Germany's quest for a title since 2014 ends in disappointment.

“

Paraguay staged a major upset by defeating pre-tournament favorite Germany in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw through regular and extra time.