Germany denied by VAR, Paraguay survive knockout scare

Germany were left frustrated after a dramatic disallowed goal in extra time as their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash against Paraguay remained locked at 1-1.

After dominating large spells of the match, Germany thought they had finally found the breakthrough in the first half of extra time. However, celebrations were cut short when the referee ruled out the goal for a foul following a VAR review, leaving the score unchanged.

Paraguay had stunned the four-time world champions by taking the lead in the 42nd minute through Julio Enciso, who capped off a swift attacking move with a composed finish.

Germany responded with renewed intensity after the break and restored parity in the 54th minute when Kai Havertz converted from close range after sustained pressure.

Despite controlling possession and creating the better chances, Germany failed to find a decisive goal in regulation time. The Europeans continued to pile on the pressure in extra time, but the disallowed strike proved their biggest setback as Paraguay's resilient defence held firm.

With the score still level at 1-1 after the opening 15 minutes of extra time, the fiercely contested knockout tie remained wide open, with a place in the Round of 16 hanging in the balance.