FOXBOROUGH, Mass. In a stunning World Cup upset, four-time champions Germany were eliminated by Paraguay on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Boston Stadium, marking their first loss in a World Cup shootout. Playing their first knockout match in 12 years, Germany once a dominant force in world football struggled to find their best form as Paraguay produced a disciplined defensive display and a historic finish.
Paraguay took the lead just before halftime when Julio Enciso headed in MatÃas Galarza’s cross, giving the South Americans their first-ever World Cup knockout goal. Germany equalized through Kai Havertz in the second half, but neither side could break the deadlock in extra time. In the shootout, José Canale converted the decisive penalty after Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved two German spot kicks, while Jonathan Tah missed Germany’s chance to shift momentum.
Manager Julian Nagelsmann acknowledged the scale of the defeat, saying the result highlights the need for significant changes after Germany’s continued struggles at recent tournaments. “This is now the third elimination in a row, so we are not part of the first-class teams any more,” he said, adding that solutions for the future must be found.
The victory is a landmark moment for Paraguay, who earlier in qualifying beat Brazil and Argentina and will always remember their win in Boston. For Germany, the focus now turns to a post-match review and the fallout over tactics, selection and coaching as fans and pundits demand answers following a disappointing World Cup campaign.
