In arguably the biggest upset of the 2026 World Cup, four-time champions Germany were knocked out of the tournament in Boston as Paraguay won 3-4 on penalties after a thrilling 1-1 Round of 32 draw. It’s a defeat that defies logic and, at the time of writing, it’s Germany’s first penalty shoot-out loss in the World Cup. In fact, in 24 World Cup penalty shoot-outs, the Germans have never failed to win one prior to this afternoon.
The blueprint: Frustrate and strike from kick-off, the strategy was set.
The Germans controlled the game with possession for large swathes, ending the first half having had 78% of the ball. The German play was predominantly centred through Kimmich, Wirtz, and Undav as they looked to find a way to penetrate a deeply set Paraguay side playing a 4-5-1 shape.
After a well-disciplined performance, Paraguay took an unexpected lead in the 42nd minute as Miguel Almiron recycled a corner and found Matas Galarza who put in a pin-point cross for Julio Enciso to power a header over Manuel Neuer. However, Germany would equalize eight minutes after half-time when Kai Havertz converted Wirtz’s cross into the German net.
Extra time drama and VAR heartbreak
Paraguay keeper Orlando Gill was a standout performer throughout the match as the shot-stopper made a number of fantastic saves, ultimately putting him on the shortlist for Man of the Match award.
The legendary Manuel Neuer made sure to put his heroics to good use. In 102 minute of extra time, it seemed Jonathan Tah had got Germany over the line when he headed a corner goalwards, but the goal was chalked off after VAR found that Waldemar Anton had pushed Gill in the build-up.
The shootout that rewrote history
Germany came into the penalty shootout knowing their impeccable record but failed to set the tone.
Paraguay keeper Orlando Gill produced a sensational performance, saving penalties from Kai Havertz and substitute Nick Woltemade to spark wild scenes in Boston. Jonathan Tah then blasted his attempt high over the crossbar, leaving it up to Jose Canale, who was making his very first World Cup start.
Canale stepped up calmly to slot the ball past Neuer to seal a famous 3-4 shootout victory for Paraguay, who will now play the winner of France vs Sweden in Philadelphia.
Paraguay move into the round of 16, whilst Germany's tournament is over and they'll begin the usual inquest.
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