Germany crash out of World Cup as Paraguay stun four-time champions on penalties

Germany’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign came to a dramatic end as Paraguay defeated them 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw through 120 minutes in Boston on Tuesday.

Paraguay held their nerve in the shootout to secure a place in the last 16, with defender Canale scoring the decisive penalty after Germany’s Jonathan Tah missed his spot-kick.

The result marked Germany’s first-ever World Cup penalty shootout defeat, adding another painful chapter to their tournament history.

Paraguay made a bright start and stunned Germany in the 42nd minute when Julio Enciso headed home from close range after a powerful cross from Almiron.

Germany dominated possession but struggled to create clear opportunities, allowing Paraguay to frustrate them with a compact defensive shape and relentless work rate.

Despite controlling 79 percent of the ball in the first half, Germany managed only one shot on target, while Paraguay created the more dangerous chances.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side improved after the break and finally found an equaliser in the 54th minute through Kai Havertz’s clever header from a Florian Wirtz delivery.

Germany continued to press for a winner as Paraguay defended deep, with Canale producing several crucial blocks to deny the European side.

The match appeared to swing Germany’s way in extra time when Tah headed home from a corner, but VAR overturned the goal after a foul on goalkeeper Orlando Gil.

The decision sparked controversy as Waldemar Anton’s contact with Gil was judged to have interfered with the goalkeeper, despite debate over whether it affected the play.

Paraguay grew increasingly comfortable as extra time progressed, focusing on survival and preparing for penalties. Germany pushed forward but failed to find another breakthrough.

Both sides had late chances before the shootout, with Paraguay goalkeeper Gil denying Germany’s attackers and keeping his team alive.

The penalty drama began with Havertz missing Germany’s first attempt, while Mauricio converted Paraguay’s opening kick.

Germany fought back through Kimmich and Musiala, but Paraguay stayed composed as the shootout moved into sudden death.

Neuer saved Balbuena’s penalty to briefly revive German hopes, but Tah’s miss handed Paraguay the advantage. Canale then stepped up and fired into the top corner to complete a famous victory.  the

The South American side will next play the winner of France-Sweden tie in the Round of 16.

Earlier in the day, Brazil came from behind against Japan to seal a 2-1 win.