Germany crashed out by Paraguay, no Round-16 after 2014 winning

Paraguay knocked Germany out of the World Cup in dramatic fashion, winning 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to reach the last 16.

The result marks the first time Germany have ever lost a penalty shootout at a World Cup and extends their long wait for a deep run at the tournament.

Julio Enciso gave Paraguay a surprise lead before half-time with a well-placed header, but Kai Havertz brought Germany level nine minutes into the second half with his third goal of the competition.

Germany believed they had completed the turnaround during extra time when Jonathan Tah headed in from a corner, only for the goal to be ruled out after a VAR review for a foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill.

The shootout that followed was tense and unpredictable. Gill saved efforts from Havertz and Nick Woltemade, while Paraguay twice missed opportunities to secure victory before José Canale converted the decisive spot-kick after Tah fired his attempt over the bar.

For Paraguay, it was a famous triumph and arguably one of the greatest results in the nation’s World Cup history. They will now face France in the next round after Les Bleus defeated Sweden.

Germany, meanwhile, was left to reflect on another disappointing campaign. This was their first appearance in the knockout stages since winning the World Cup in 2014, but their progress ended at the first hurdle.

Paraguay nearly took the lead within the opening minute when Junior Alonso found space from a corner, only for Manuel Neuer to deny him.

Germany enjoyed plenty of possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Paraguayan defence. Their lack of cutting edge was exposed just before the interval when Matías Galarza delivered a cross from the right and an unmarked Enciso headed past Neuer.

The goal was significant for Paraguay, who had failed to score in their previous five World Cup knockout matches.

Germany improved after the break and quickly found an equaliser. Florian Wirtz cut in from the left and delivered a teasing cross that Havertz glanced into the far corner.

Enciso later left the field injured, reducing Paraguay’s attacking threat, and Germany began to dominate. Gill produced an outstanding save to keep out another Havertz header, while the South Americans defended bravely to force extra time.

Tah’s disallowed goal proved Germany’s closest moment to victory. They continued to threaten from set-pieces, but Paraguay held firm before keeping their composure in the shootout to complete a memorable upset.

The victory sends Paraguay into the last 16 with confidence, while Germany leave the tournament facing renewed questions about their ability to compete with the world’s leading sides.