Germany and Paraguay locked in tight battle after VAR overturns Tah’s goal

Germany and Paraguay remained deadlocked after 90 minutes in their Round of 16 clash, forcing the match into extra time following a VAR review. The game was settled only after the video assistant intervened to disallow a second-half strike from Germany’s Antonio Rüdiger, which had initially put his side ahead. The opening goal arrived in the 26th minute when Rüdiger, positioned at the second post, finished clinically after a cross from the right. Germany dominated possession but struggled to create clear chances, with goalkeeper Robin Zentner making a crucial save from Jamal Musiala’s effort. The hosts pressed for a penalty after a potential handball by Paraguay’s Santiago Arzamendia, but both the referee and VAR opted against awarding the spot-kick. The decision was widely supported by observers. Five minutes of added time were played in the second half, but neither side could find a winner. Germany’s Kai Havertz came closest, with a shot that was comfortably saved by Paraguay’s goalkeeper. Germany continued to probe, but Paraguay’s defence held firm.

Penalty drama reshapes World Cup path for Paraguay and Germany

Substitutes played a key role late on. Paraguay’s Adam Bareiro forced a save from Germany’s Manuel Neuer, while Germany’s Niclas Füllkrug saw his effort blocked by Santiago Arzamendia in the dying moments. The ex-Union Berlin striker Thiago Undav was replaced, with Musiala introduced as his successor. Extra time beckoned as neither side could break the deadlock. Paraguay’s Adam Bareiro had a header saved by Neuer, while Germany’s Leon Goretzka saw a late effort denied by Canale. The tension escalated as both teams pushed for a decisive goal.

Germany battles back in Boston while Paraguay holds 0-1 lead

The match now heads to extra time with the score level at 1-1. Neither side has managed to capitalise on their opportunities, leaving the outcome uncertain as the clock ticks past 90 minutes. Germany will need to regroup quickly if they are to avoid a penalty shootout, while Paraguay will look to exploit any defensive lapses in the additional period.