Paraguay produced one of the biggest surprises of the FIFA World Cup by defeating four-time champions Germany in a tense penalty shootout to book their place in the Round of 16. The thrilling knockout clash ended 1-1 after both regular and extra time before Paraguay held their nerve from the spot to complete a memorable victory.
The match, played in Boston, remained evenly contested from start to finish. Both sides scored once during regulation time, but neither team could find the decisive goal despite several chances. Extra time also failed to separate the two teams, forcing the contest into a penalty shootout.
During the initial five penalties, both Paraguay and Germany converted three spot-kicks. With the scores still level, the shootout moved into sudden death, where Germany missed its first penalty. Paraguay then calmly converted the next kick to seal a famous win and eliminate one of the tournament favorites.
THE FOUR-TIME WORLD CUP WINNERS, GERMANY, ARE ELIMINATED IN THE ROUND OF 32 BY PARAGUAY ON PENALTIES.
The first upset of the knockout stage 🤯 pic.twitter.com/axPr7fNdEN
— ESPN (@espn) June 29, 2026
The result marked a historic moment for German football. It was the first time Germany had lost a FIFA World Cup penalty shootout, bringing an unexpected end to the campaign of the four-time world champions.
Following the final kick, Paraguay’s players celebrated wildly with their supporters inside the stadium. The victory sparked emotional scenes as fans applauded their team’s determination and composure under pressure. In contrast, disappointment was evident among Germany’s players and coaching staff after the heartbreaking defeat.
Paraguay will now face either France or Sweden in the Round of 16, with hopes of extending their impressive World Cup run. The team will aim to build on the confidence gained from eliminating one of international football’s most successful nations.
