Paraguay stun Germany in penalties to pull off the World Cup's biggest upset
In the biggest shock of the 2026 World Cup so far, Paraguay eliminated Germany on penalties (4-3) after a 1-1 draw, ending the four-time world champions' campaign in the Round of 32.
Paraguay have produced the shock of the 2026 World Cup, eliminating Germany on penalties (4-3) after a 1-1 draw in what will be remembered as one of football's great upsets.
Germany lead but Paraguay hold on
Germany opened the scoring and looked in control for large spells, but Paraguay — organised, compact and hard to break down — levelled and refused to buckle. After 90 minutes and then 30 minutes of extra time, the match remained level at 1-1.
Penalty heroics
The penalty shootout was where Paraguay made history. Their goalkeeper saved a crucial German kick while all four Paraguay takers converted with composure to win 4-3 and send the four-time world champions home in the last 32.
Germany's painful exit
For Germany, it is a result that stings deeply. Considered among the favourites before the tournament, the Mannschaft exit at the Round of 32 stage in humbling fashion, echoing past early exits from major tournaments that have shaken German football.
Paraguay face France
Paraguay now face France in the Round of 16 — a daunting prospect, but a team that has nothing to fear after stunning one of world football's traditional powerhouses.
