World Cup 2026: Germany crash out as Paraguay triumph on penalties

Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to a dramatic end after Paraguay defeated the four-time champions on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in their Round of 32 clash.

Despite controlling possession for much of the contest, Julian Nagelsmann’s side were unable to find a winning goal after Kai Havertz cancelled out Julio Enciso’s first-half opener.

With neither team able to break the deadlock over 120 minutes, the tie was decided from the penalty spot, where Paraguay held their nerve to book a place in the Round of 16.

The victory sends Paraguay through to face France, while Germany exit the tournament after failing to turn their dominance into qualification.

Germany responded after falling behind

Germany spent long periods on the front foot but found themselves trailing just before the interval.

Enciso gives Paraguay first-half lead

Paraguay stunned the Germans in the 42nd minute when Julio Enciso scored against the run of play to hand his side a valuable advantage before half-time.

The goal rewarded one of Paraguay’s few attacking opportunities in the opening half, while Germany were left frustrated despite enjoying most of the possession.

Julian Nagelsmann’s team controlled the tempo but could not find a breakthrough before the break.

Havertz restores parity but Germany cannot finish the job

Germany emerged for the second half with greater urgency and quickly found the equaliser.

Germany dominate without reward

Kai Havertz levelled the score in the 54th minute, giving Germany renewed belief as they pushed forward in search of a winner.

The Mannschaft continued to dominate possession, creating a series of attacking moves deep inside the Paraguayan half.

However, Paraguay defended with discipline and determination, while their goalkeeper produced crucial interventions whenever Germany threatened.

Despite sustained pressure, Germany failed to convert their superiority into a second goal before the end of regulation time.

Extra time fails to separate the teams

Both sides continued searching for the decisive goal during the additional 30 minutes.

Paraguay hold their nerve in shootout

Germany continued to attack in extra time, but Paraguay maintained their defensive organisation and successfully resisted every attempt to regain the lead.

Paraguay also looked to threaten on the counter-attack but could not find a breakthrough of their own.

After 120 minutes, the score remained locked at 1-1, sending the Round of 32 encounter to a penalty shootout.

From the spot, Paraguay kept their composure and emerged victorious, ending Germany’s World Cup campaign and securing their place in the Round of 16.

The result means Paraguay advance to face France in the next round, while Germany leave the tournament after an evening that saw possession and chances ultimately count for little.