World Cup: Paraguay shocks Germany on penalties to reach last 16
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Paraguay defeated Germany 4-3 on penalties in the World Cup round of 32 after a 1-1 draw.
- Germany exited the tournament for the first time in a penalty shootout, while Paraguay secured arguably their biggest win.
- Paraguay's goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved two penalties, and Jose Canale scored the winning spot-kick.
Paraguay stunned Germany in the World Cup round of 32, winning 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The victory marks a historic moment for Paraguay, securing what is arguably their greatest win in the tournament.
Germany's exit is particularly significant as it's the first time they have ever lost a penalty shootout at a World Cup. Julio Enciso put Paraguay ahead with a header before halftime, but Kai Havertz equalized for Germany in the 54th minute. The match went into extra time, where Jonathan Tah had a goal disallowed after a VAR review.
The penalty shootout was a dramatic affair, with momentum swinging back and forth. Paraguay's goalkeeper Orlando Gill was the hero, saving penalties from Havertz and Nick Woltemade. Despite teammates missing two chances to secure the win, Jose Canale ultimately blasted in the decisive spot-kick after Tah missed the target.
This is a privilege; we eliminated a champion. This is dedicated to all Paraguayans.
This premature exit is another blow for Germany, who had not reached the knockout stage since their 2014 World Cup triumph. Paraguay now faces a daunting prospect in the next round, potentially meeting an in-form France if they defeat Sweden.
"This is a privilege; we eliminated a champion. This is dedicated to all Paraguayans," said Gill, describing the victory as an "immense thrill." He added, "Thank God I was able to save two penalties."
Thank God I was able to save two penalties.
Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.