Paraguay Stuns Germany on Penalties to Reach Round of 16

Paraguay caused a major upset on Monday, June 30, 2026, by beating Germany 4-3 on penalties in the first knockout round of the World Cup, securing a spot in the round of 16. The match ended 1-1 after regular time (1-0 at halftime) and remained scoreless in extra time.

Germany dominated possession in the first half but struggled against Paraguay's compact defense. In the 42nd minute, a defensive error by Germany allowed Matias Halarsa to cross from the right, and Julio Enciso headed home unmarked to give Paraguay the lead. Early in the second half, Enciso had a chance from close range but Manuel Neuer saved. In the 54th minute, Florian Wirtz's cross was headed in by Kai Havertz to equalize.

Extra time saw a German goal disallowed after VAR detected a foul on Orlando Hils during a corner kick. With no further goals, the match went to penalties.

The shootout began with Havertz's penalty saved by Hils, while Mauricio Magallanes scored past Neuer. Joshua Kimmich, Gustavo Gómez, Jamal Musiala, and Halarsa all converted. Hils saved another from Nick Woltemade, and Antonio Sanabria hit the post, giving Germany a chance. Nadiem Amiri scored, but Fabián Balbuena's effort was saved by Neuer. Jonathan Tah fired over, and José Canal sealed Paraguay's win 4-3. Hils made two saves in total.

Paraguay will face the winner of France vs. Sweden in the round of 16. The 2026 World Cup, the first with 48 teams, is co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.