Penalty shootout decides Germany's World Cup fate against Paraguay

Germany's World Cup campaign collapsed in the round of 16 on Tuesday night when a penalty shootout against Paraguay saw the German side fall short, ending their tournament hopes after 120 minutes of play under manager Julian Nagelsmann, with the match extending into extra time before the decisive kicks. From the first whistle, Germany held the majority of possession while Paraguay looked to hit on the counter. The German attack could not breach Paraguay's compact defence, and just before halftime Julio Enciso headed the ball past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer after a right‑flank cross to give Paraguay a 0‑1 lead. In first‑half injury time Germany came close to equalising when a Felix Nmecha cross was struck and nearly rattled the far post. The half ended with Paraguay still ahead. The second half began with Germany pressing for an equaliser, and Kai Havertz found the net after a looping cross, restoring parity at 1‑1.

Penalty drama reshapes World Cup path for Paraguay and Germany

Later, Paraguay threatened to retake the lead in the 77th minute when substitute Gustavo Caballero challenged Neuer but failed to convert, while Havertz’s header was saved by Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill. Almirón attempted a long‑range effort for Paraguay, but his shot was deflected, keeping the score level. Extra time saw Germany dominate again, but Jonathan Tah’s header that appeared to make it 2‑1 was ruled out after a VAR review for a foul on the keeper. Waldemar Anton then headed a corner straight into Neuer’s hands, confirming the need for penalties.

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

The shootout began poorly for Germany as Kai Havertz miskicked, allowing Orlando Gill to save. Maurício converted his spot‑kick, and three further penalties were scored before Nick Woltemade missed for Germany, giving Paraguay match point. Antonio Sanabria then missed, but Nadiem Amiri scored to keep Germany alive. Fabián Balbuena’s attempt was saved by Neuer, yet Jonathan Tah overshot, and José Canale calmly converted the final spot‑kick to seal Paraguay’s progression. With the defeat, Germany exit the World Cup at the round of 16, leaving manager Julian Nagelsmann to face intense scrutiny ahead of the next international fixtures.