Paraguay beats Germany on penalties to advance to World Cup round of 16
Paraguay defeated Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, advancing to the round of 16.
Paraguay secured a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Germany (4-3) in the World Cup round of 32 on June 29, advancing to the round of 16.
The match started with an early chance for Paraguay: a corner in the second minute led to a shot by Junior Alonso, saved by Manuel Neuer. Germany dominated possession (79% in the first half) but struggled to create clear chances. Paraguay defended deep and waited for counterattacks. In the 42nd minute, they stole the ball from a German attacker, delivered a cross, and Julio Enciso scored to make it 1-0.
Germany responded in the second half – in the 54th minute, Kai Havertz headed the equalizer. Regular time ended 1-1, sending the match to extra time for the first time in the tournament. In the 102nd minute, Germany thought they had taken the lead when Jonathan Tah scored from a corner, but VAR disallowed the goal for blocking the Paraguay goalkeeper.
The match went to penalties. Havertz missed the first attempt, saved by Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Hils. Paraguay then missed two consecutive penalties (one wide, one saved by Neuer). However, Tah sent his spot-kick over the bar, and on Paraguay's third attempt, Jose Canal scored to seal the 4-3 shootout win.
Paraguay now moves on to the round of 16.
