Paraguay produced one of the biggest shocks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by eliminating four-time champions Germany 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a gripping 1-1 draw at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The stunning Round of 32 victory sent the South Americans into the Round of 16 and ended Germany’s campaign in heartbreaking fashion.
Germany dominated possession from the opening whistle and controlled large spells of the contest, but Paraguay defended with remarkable discipline and made every opportunity count. Julio Enciso gave Paraguay a deserved lead in the 42nd minute with a powerful header, silencing the German supporters and putting the underdogs within touching distance of a famous victory.
The four-time world champions responded after the break as Kai Havertz found the equaliser in the 54th minute, setting up a tense finish. Germany continued to press for a winner and thought Jonathan Tah had completed the comeback in extra time, only for the goal to be ruled out following a VAR review for a foul on Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill during the build-up. The controversial decision ensured the contest would be settled from the penalty spot.
The penalty shootout delivered even more drama. Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero with crucial saves, while José Canale calmly converted the decisive spot-kick to seal a memorable 4-3 triumph. Germany’s Jonathan Tah, whose extra-time goal had been disallowed, missed the final penalty as Paraguay completed a famous upset.
The defeat marked an unwanted milestone for Germany, who suffered their first-ever FIFA World Cup penalty shootout loss. Having previously won all four of their World Cup shootouts, the European giants saw their remarkable record come to an end on one of the tournament’s biggest stages.
Following the historic victory, Paraguay captain Gustavo Gómez praised his teammates for their courage and resilience, while head coach Gustavo Alfaro hailed his squad as “26 warriors” who had united an entire nation. German coach Julian Nagelsmann admitted his side had fallen short despite controlling possession and insisted he would not step down after the disappointing exit.
Paraguay will now face the winner of France versus Sweden in the Round of 16, carrying enormous momentum after producing one of the most memorable upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
