Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by eliminating four-time champions Germany 4-3 in a penalty shoot-out after the teams were locked at 1-1 following extra time in their Round of 32 clash.
Germany made a positive start and took the lead during regular time, but Paraguay refused to back down and found a crucial equaliser to force the match into extra time. Despite both sides creating opportunities over 120 minutes, neither could find a decisive goal, sending the contest to penalties.
In the shoot-out, Paraguay held their nerve, converting four of their spot-kicks while Germany faltered under pressure, scoring only three. The winning penalty sparked jubilant celebrations among the Paraguayan players and supporters as they sealed a memorable victory and booked their place in the Round of 16.
The result marks a major disappointment for Germany, one of the tournament favourites, whose World Cup campaign ends far earlier than expected. Paraguay, meanwhile, advances with renewed confidence and will now face the winner of the France vs Sweden Round of 32 encounter in the next stage.
The dramatic victory highlights Paraguay’s resilience and composure under pressure, proving once again that knockout football can produce unforgettable surprises. Germany dominated spells of the match but were unable to convert their chances into a decisive advantage, allowing Paraguay to stay in the contest before triumphing from the penalty spot.
