Paraguay booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after defeating Germany 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout at Gillette Stadium in Boston on Tuesday.
Despite dominating possession for most of the match, Germany failed to capitalize on their chances as Paraguay’s disciplined defense and goalkeeper Orlando Gill proved decisive. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, forcing the contest into penalties.
Paraguay struck first in the 42nd minute when midfielder Matías Galarza delivered a corner that was met by Julio Enciso, whose powerful header beat the German goalkeeper to give the South Americans a crucial lead before halftime.
Germany responded strongly after the break. In the 54th minute, headed home from a precise cross by to level the score.
The Germans kept pressing for a winner, creating multiple opportunities, but Paraguay held firm. A header from in extra time was ruled out after a VAR review, while goalkeeper Orlando Gill made crucial late saves to keep his side alive.
The shootout saw Gill emerge as the hero, denying Havertz early and putting Germany under immediate pressure. With both sides tied 3-3 after the initial five penalties, Tah missed in sudden death, allowing Paraguay’s José Canale to convert the winning spot-kick and seal a famous victory.
The result marks a major milestone for Paraguay, who reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since 2010. Germany, champions in 2014, saw their comeback campaign come to an end in their first knockout appearance of the 2026 tournament.
