Shock at the 2026 World Cup! Germany knocked out by Paraguay after VAR and penalty drama (Video)
Germany sensationally crashed out of the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic clash with Paraguay.
Details: Julian Nagelsmann’s squad lost to Paraguay in the round of 16. After 120 minutes, the scoreboard read 1-1, but it was Paraguay who held their nerve in the penalty shootout—winning 4-3.
The match unfolded in Boston at Gillette Stadium. Paraguay struck first in the 42nd minute, thanks to a goal from Julio Enciso, but Germany hit back after the break—Kai Havertz equalized in the 54th minute.
In extra time, the Germans came agonizingly close to a rescue act. Jonathan Tah thought he’d put his team ahead in the 102nd minute, but after a VAR review, the goal was chalked off. The reason? A foul on the goalkeeper—Waldemar Anton was adjudged to have impeded the keeper during the play.
Neither side could find a winner in extra time, sending the contest to penalties, where Orlando Gill emerged as the hero. The Paraguayan keeper stopped spot-kicks from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade, while Jonathan Tah missed the target altogether.
For Germany, it’s a painful exit at the very first stage of the knockout rounds. Paraguay, meanwhile, keeps their World Cup dream alive and advances to the next stage of the tournament.
Reminder: Germany's goal ruled out in match against Paraguay (Video)
Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
