Paraguay upset Germany in shootout to book last-16 berth

Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout to secure a place in the last 16 after a gripping Round of 32 contest ended 1-1 following extra time.

Despite dominating possession, creating far more chances and controlling long spells of the match, Germany failed to convert their superiority into victory, eventually paying the price from the spot.

Paraguay struck first in the 42nd minute through Julio Enciso, whose clinical finish gave the South Americans a deserved lead before halftime. Germany responded strongly after the break, with Kai Havertz restoring parity in the 54th minute to set up an intense battle.

The four-time world champions took control for the remainder of the contest, relentlessly pressing for a winner. Germany enjoyed 75 percent possession, attempted 21 shots — seven of them on target — and completed 753 passes with an impressive 92 percent accuracy. Paraguay, by contrast, managed seven attempts, four on target, while completing 262 passes at a 69 percent success rate.

Germany thought they had completed the comeback in the first period of extra time when Jonathan Tah headed home, only for the goal to be ruled out after a VAR review identified a foul inside the penalty area. The decision proved pivotal as Paraguay's disciplined defence held firm under sustained pressure.

With neither side able to find a decisive goal over 120 minutes, the match went to penalties. Paraguay kept their composure in the shootout, prevailing 4-3 to eliminate Germany and book their place in the last 16, while the Germans were left to rue missed opportunities despite their overwhelming dominance.