
BOSTON: Former world champions Germany’s World Cup campaign came to a disappointing end after they suffered a penalty shootout defeat against Paraguay. Germany were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup after losing the Round of 32 match, with Paraguay winning the shootout 4-3 to advance to the Round of 16.
The victory marked Paraguay’s first-ever win in a FIFA World Cup knockout match. It was also a historic moment as Paraguay secured their first knockout-stage goal achievement in World Cup history.
Paraguay took the lead in the first half, with Julio Enciso scoring the opening goal in the 42nd minute. Germany responded early in the second half, as Kai Havertz found the equaliser to bring the match level. Neither side could find a winning goal during the rest of normal time or extra time, sending the match into a penalty shootout.
Germany’s Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade failed to convert their penalties, while two Paraguay players also missed their attempts. The contest went into sudden death, where Jonathan Tah missed Germany’s final penalty. Paraguay converted their next kick to seal a historic victory. Germany were knocked out of the tournament, while Paraguay booked their place in the Round of 16.
Germany entered the match hoping to bounce back from their defeat against Ecuador and continue their World Cup journey. However, Paraguay ended their hopes with a memorable performance and a historic win.