Goalkeeper Orlando Gill shines as Paraguay upset four-time champions after VAR drama and shootout heartbreak for Germany

Paraguay delivered the biggest upset of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far, eliminating four-time champions Germany 4–3 on penalties after a 1–1 draw following extra time in their Round of 32 clash.

Julio Enciso handed Paraguay a surprise first-half lead, but Kai Havertz restored parity for Germany in the second half.

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the Germans were unable to find a winner, as the match remained level after 120 minutes.

Germany thought they had completed the comeback in extra time when Jonathan Tah headed home from a corner, but the goal was ruled out after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review for a foul on Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill—sending the contest to penalties.

In the shootout, Gill emerged as Paraguay’s hero with two crucial saves, while Germany missed three spot-kicks. José Canale calmly converted the decisive penalty after Tah fired Germany’s sudden-death effort over the crossbar, sealing Paraguay’s historic progression.

The result marks Germany’s first-ever defeat in a World Cup penalty shootout and sends Paraguay into the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of Tuesday’s clash between France and Sweden.

Paraguay’s triumph continues their remarkable campaign and stands as one of the tournament’s biggest surprises, while Germany crash out despite entering the competition as one of the favourites.