Paraguay stuns Germany on penalties to reach round of 16

In a stunning upset, Paraguay has eliminated four-time champions Germany from the FIFA World Cup 2026™ after a dramatic penalty shootout. The South American nation secured a historic place in the Round of 16 following a grueling 120 minutes of football that ended in a stalemate.

Gustavo Alfaro's Paraguayan side delivered a defensive masterclass throughout the match, successfully neutralizing Germany's formidable attack. Despite Germany dominating possession for large periods, Paraguay's organized and resolute defense frustrated their opponents, preventing them from converting their territorial advantage into goals.

The match remained goalless through regulation time and extra time, forcing the contest into a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. Paraguay held their nerve to convert their spot-kicks, ultimately triumphing over the heavily favored German side.

This historic victory marks a significant achievement for Paraguayan football, showcasing their resilience and tactical discipline on the world stage. Their progression to the knockout stages is a testament to their hard work and determination, defying expectations and sending shockwaves through the tournament.