Germany have been eliminated from the World Cup in a stunning penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay in the last 32, marking the first time the four-time champions have ever lost on penalties at the tournament. The match ended 1-1 after extra time, with Paraguay winning 4-3 in the shootout.
Match Overview
Paraguay took the lead in the first half through former Brighton and Ipswich star Julio Enciso, who headed home from a pinpoint cross by Matias Galarza in the 38th minute. Germany dominated possession with 76% but struggled to create clear chances. Arsenal striker Kai Havertz equalised in the 55th minute with a flicked header from a Florian Wirtz cross.
Despite controlling the game, Germany managed only three shots on target in regular time. The match went to extra time, where a Jonathan Tah header was controversially ruled out by VAR due to a foul by Waldemar Anton on goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
Penalty Shootout Drama
In the shootout, Havertz saw his effort saved, and Newcastle's Nick Woltemade missed, giving Paraguay two chances to win. However, Antonio Sanabria dragged his penalty wide, and former West Ham defender Fabian Balbuena's spot kick was saved. Tah then smashed his penalty over the crossbar, and Jose Canale scored the winner for Paraguay.
According to statistics, Germany had previously won all four of their World Cup penalty shootouts, scoring 17 out of 18 spot kicks. Their luck ran out in this match, as they missed three penalties.
Impact and Next Steps
Paraguay advance to the last 16, where they will face the winner of France vs Sweden. Germany's early exit is a major shock, as they were considered strong contenders. Coach Julian Nagelsmann will face questions about the team's lack of clinical finishing and the controversial VAR decision that disallowed Tah's goal.
