Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to a heartbreaking end after the four-time champions lost 4-3 on penalties to Paraguay following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill emerged as the hero, saving spot-kicks from Arsenal forward Kai Havertz and Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade to help his side secure a place in the Round of 16.
Germany were handed a lifeline in the shootout when Antonio Sanabria fired wide and veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 40, saved Fabian Balbuena’s penalty. However, in sudden death, Jonathan Tah blasted his effort over the crossbar before José Canale calmly converted the decisive penalty to send Paraguay through.
Paraguay had taken a surprise lead in the 42nd minute through Julio Enciso, the former Brighton and Ipswich Town forward, who headed home to stun the Germans.
Germany responded strongly after the break and levelled the contest when Havertz glanced home a header from a pinpoint cross by Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz.
The Germans thought they had snatched victory in extra time when Tah headed into the net, but the goal was ruled out after Waldemar Anton was judged to have fouled Gill in the build-up.
In the penalty shootout, Germany never held the advantage after Havertz missed the opening kick. Although Paraguay squandered two opportunities to wrap up the contest, Canale kept his composure with the decisive penalty to spark jubilant celebrations.
Paraguay will face either two-time champions France or 1958 runners-up Sweden in the Round of 16 in Philadelphia on Saturday.
