Paraguay stun Germany to reach World Cup last 16

MASSACHUSETTS: Paraguay secured a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16 after defeating Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time, producing one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.

Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead late in the first half with a header, marking his country’s first goal in a World Cup knockout match. Germany responded after the break through Kai Havertz, who headed home Florian Wirtz’s cross to level the score.

Germany dominated possession for much of the contest but struggled to convert their chances. Jonathan Tah appeared to have scored the winner in extra time, only for the goal to be ruled out following a VAR review for a foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

The match went to penalties, where Havertz, Nick Woltemade and Tah all failed to convert for Germany before Jose Canale scored the decisive spot-kick to send Paraguay through. It marked Germany’s first defeat in a World Cup penalty shootout and Paraguay’s first knockout-stage victory since reaching the quarter-finals in 2010.

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Germany captain Joshua Kimmich admitted his side deserved to be eliminated after failing to overcome Paraguay over 120 minutes, while head coach Julian Nagelsmann acknowledged his team had fallen short of expectations.

Paraguay captain Gustavo Gomez praised his team’s determination and resilience, saying the players had given everything to earn a memorable victory. Paraguay will face either France or Sweden in the round of 16.