Paraguay eliminated Germany from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after winning 4-3 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw that lasted through extra time.
The South Americans took the lead just before half-time when Julio Enciso, formerly of Brighton and Ipswich Town, headed home to put Germany under pressure.
Germany responded strongly after the break. Kai Havertz equalised with a glancing header from Florian Wirtz’s cross, forcing the match into extra time after both sides failed to find another goal.
Germany thought they had won the match when Jonathan Tah headed into the net, but the goal was ruled out after Waldemar Anton was judged to have fouled Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
The penalty shootout produced more drama. Gill saved penalties from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade, while Paraguay missed two opportunities to seal victory. In sudden death, Tah fired his effort over the bar before Jose Canale calmly converted the winning penalty to spark wild celebrations.
Paraguay will now face either France or Sweden in the World Cup last 16 as they continue their impressive tournament run.
Germany’s campaign ends in disappointment, while Paraguay move one step closer to a historic World Cup run.
