Paraguay booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Germany 4-3 on penalties following a thrilling 1-1 draw after extra time.
The Guaraníes produced a disciplined display to end a 16-year wait for a place in the last 16, becoming the third nation to reach the Round of 16 after Canada and Brazil.
Paraguay took the lead three minutes before halftime when Julio Enciso rose highest to head home, giving the South Americans a deserved advantage at the break.
Germany responded early in the second half through Kai Havertz, whose powerful header in the 54th minute restored parity and set up a tense contest.
Neither side could find the decisive goal during the remainder of regulation time or the additional 30 minutes, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.
Paraguay held their nerve from the spot, converting four of their penalties to secure a dramatic 4-3 victory and eliminate the four-time world champions.
The victory sends Paraguay into the Round of 16 for the first time since the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where they will face the winners of the clash between France and Sweden for a place in the quarter-finals.
