Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 30, 2026 | Kolkata : Paraguay produced the first major upset of the FIFA World Cup knockout stage by defeating four-time world champions Germany 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw at Boston Stadium on Monday night. The memorable victory secured Paraguay's place in the Round of 16 and marked one of the biggest surprises of the tournament so far.

The match remained evenly poised at 1-1 after the regulation 90 minutes, forcing extra time. With neither side able to find a decisive breakthrough during the additional 30 minutes, the contest was ultimately decided from the penalty spot, where Paraguay held their nerve to emerge victorious in a tense and emotionally charged shootout.

The defeat also marked a historic first for Germany. For the first time in FIFA World Cup history, the European giants lost a penalty shootout. Germany had previously won all four of their World Cup matches that had gone to penalties, making this elimination all the more significant. After suffering group-stage exits in the previous two World Cups, Germany had hoped to restore their reputation on football's biggest stage, but their campaign came to an end in the very first knockout match.

Despite controlling large portions of the game, Germany failed to capitalize on their dominance. The four-time champions enjoyed nearly 75 percent possession throughout the match and consistently pushed forward in search of goals. Germany registered 21 shots, with seven hitting the target, while Paraguay managed only seven attempts in total, four of which were on target. However, Paraguay's disciplined defensive structure and clinical finishing proved more effective than Germany's sustained attacking pressure.

Paraguay struck first just before halftime when Julio Enciso found the back of the net in the 42nd minute, giving his side a crucial lead heading into the interval. Germany responded positively after the break, and Kai Havertz restored parity in the 54th minute with a composed finish that reignited hopes of another famous German comeback.

The remainder of normal time saw Germany dominate possession and create several promising opportunities, but Paraguay's resilient backline stood firm under relentless pressure. The South American side continued to defend with determination throughout extra time, frustrating Germany's attackers and ensuring the score remained locked at 1-1.

The match eventually headed to penalties, where Paraguay displayed remarkable composure under immense pressure. Converting four of their spot-kicks while Germany managed only three, Paraguay completed a historic victory that sent their players and supporters into jubilant celebrations.

Paraguay, the triumph represents one of the country's greatest FIFA World Cup achievements in recent history, while for Germany it signals another disappointing chapter in an increasingly difficult period for one of international football's most successful nations. As Paraguay marches confidently into the Round of 16, Germany is left to reflect on another campaign that ended well short of expectations.