7M - Germany 1-1 Paraguay: Heavyweights crash out in shootout shock

Paraguay pulled off a historic upset at Boston Stadium, defeating Germany 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a tense 1-1 draw after extra time. This shocking result marked the very first penalty shootout of the 2026 World Cup and condemned the European heavyweights to exit before the round of 16 for the third consecutive tournament.

The South American team broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute when an unmarked Julio Enciso directed a header into the net from Matias Galarza's cross, securing Paraguay's first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout match. Germany responded after the interval, leveling the score when Kai Havertz capitalized on Florian Wirtz's cross with a deft header into the bottom corner.

Julian Nagelsmann's side believed they had clinched a late victory during extra time when Jonathan Tah headed home from Nathaniel Brown's corner. However, following a VAR review, the referee disallowed the goal, ruling that Waldemar Anton had obstructed Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

The match ultimately proceeded to spot-kicks, where Germany suffered their first-ever World Cup shootout defeat. Gill made crucial saves to deny both Havertz and Nick Woltemade, while Antonio Sanabria missed his attempt for Paraguay. Although Manuel Neuer kept Germany's hopes alive by blocking Fabian Balbuena's shot, Tah subsequently skied his sudden-death effort over the crossbar. Jose Canale then stepped up to fire his penalty high into the net, sealing a memorable victory for Paraguay and setting up a round-of-16 clash against either France or Sweden.