The 2026 FIFA World Cup has produced its first blockbuster shock. Four-time world champions Germany have been dramatically eliminated in the Round of 32, falling to Paraguay 4-3 on penalties after a gripping 1-1 draw at Boston Stadium.
In one of the biggest upsets of the tournament so far, Paraguay held their nerve from the spot to knock out one of football’s most decorated nations, sparking scenes of wild celebration across South America.
How the Drama Unfolded
Paraguay stunned the Germans just before half-time when former Brighton and Ipswich striker Julio Enciso rose highest to head his side into a shock 42nd-minute lead. Germany struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, but emerged with renewed energy after the break.
The equaliser came through Arsenal forward Kai Havertz, who glanced a header home from a pinpoint cross by Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz. Germany pushed hard for a winner in normal time and thought they had found it when Jonathan Tah headed into the net, only for the goal to be ruled out after VAR judged that Waldemar Anton had fouled Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Extra time couldn’t separate the sides, setting the stage for a dramatic penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout Heartbreak
Germany went first but were immediately on the back foot as Havertz saw his spot-kick saved. Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade was also denied by the outstanding Gill. Yet Paraguay twice failed to capitalise — Antonio Sanabria shot wide and Fabian Balbuena’s effort was stopped by legendary 40-year-old goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
In sudden death, the pressure told on Germany as Tah blazed his penalty over the bar. Up stepped defender Jose Canale, who kept his composure to slot home the decisive kick and spark incredible scenes of celebration among the Paraguayan players and fans.
France Up Next for Paraguay
Paraguay’s reward is a blockbuster last-16 clash against two-time champions France, who cruised past Sweden 3-0 in New York thanks to a brace from Kylian Mbappe and a goal from Bradley Barcola. Mbappe became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup knockout matches with his two strikes, and now shares the Golden Boot lead with Argentina’s Lionel Messi on six goals.
The match is scheduled for Saturday at Philadelphia’s state-of-the-art stadium.
2026 World Cup — A Tournament of Surprises
With the tournament expanded to 48 teams and hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 edition has already delivered unforgettable moments. Germany’s early exit is the biggest story yet — a reminder that in World Cup football, reputation means nothing once the whistle blows.
Upcoming Key Matches (Knockout Stage)
- France vs Paraguay — Saturday, July 11 (Last 16, Philadelphia)
- Round of 16 fixtures continue across Boston, New York, Los Angeles, Monterrey, Toronto, Seattle, Houston, Dallas, Mexico City, and Atlanta
- Quarter-finals — July 14-15
- Semi-finals — July 18-19
- 2026 World Cup Final — July 19 at MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Germany vs Paraguay match?
Germany lost 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Julio Enciso scored for Paraguay, Kai Havertz equalised for Germany, and Jose Canale scored the winning penalty in sudden death.
When is the France vs Paraguay match?
The last-16 clash between France and Paraguay is scheduled for Saturday, July 11 at Philadelphia Stadium.
Where is the 2026 World Cup being held?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first to be hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Matches are being played across 16 stadiums in North America, with the final set for MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.