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United States: Paraguay ousts Germany on penalties

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FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts, June 29, 2026 – Paraguay produced the biggest upset of the 2026 World Cup by eliminating four-time champions Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 match at Boston Stadium. Julio Enciso gave Paraguay the lead in the 42nd minute, finishing a well-worked move started by Atlanta United midfielder Miguel Almirón, whose pass released Matías Galarza to provide the final assist. Germany pulled level with a second-half equalizer to send the match to extra time, where play grew increasingly physical and the referee issued multiple yellow cards as both defenses fought to contain counterattacks. Extra time turned on a major flashpoint when German defender Jonathan Tah appeared to put his team ahead from a corner, only for the Video Assistant Referee to prompt a review that led the head official to disallow the goal for a foul on Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill. With the score still 1-1 after 120 minutes, the contest moved to a tense shootout. Gill emerged as Paraguay’s hero by saving two German attempts, while Germany missed three of their six kicks, including Tah’s shot blasted over the bar in the first round of sudden death. Paraguayan defender José Canale, making his first start of the tournament, then converted the decisive penalty to seal the 4-3 victory and complete Paraguay’s historic knockout of Germany.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

First half, 42nd minute Enciso scores opener for Paraguay
Second half Germany equalizes to force extra time
Early extra time Tah appears to score
Moments later VAR review disallows German goal
End of extra time match remains level 1-1
During shootout Gill makes two crucial saves
First sudden-death round Tah misses over crossbar
Immediately after Canale converts decisive penalty

Why This Matters to You

This match is a reminder of soccer's unpredictability. It's why we love the game. Paraguay's victory over a powerhouse like Germany shows that any team can triumph on any given day. If you're a soccer fan, this is a moment to savor. And if you're not, it's a great time to start watching.

The Bottom Line

Paraguay's historic win over Germany is a testament to teamwork, strategy, and a bit of luck. It's a reminder that in sports, as in life, the underdog can come out on top. Worth forwarding if you know someone who loves a good underdog story.