Germany’s World Cup campaign came to a disappointing end after Paraguay defeated the four-time champions on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in their Round of 32 clash.
Paraguay took the lead just before halftime when Julio Enciso rose highest to power home a header in the 42nd minute, giving the South Americans a deserved advantage.
Germany responded early in the second half through Kai Havertz, whose deft flicked header in the 54th minute restored parity and forced the contest into extra time.
Neither side could find the decisive goal during the additional 30 minutes, sending the tie to a tense penalty shootout.
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Paraguay held their nerve from the spot, with Juan Canale emerging as the hero after Germany defender Jonathan Tah missed his penalty, sealing the South Americans’ place in the Round of 16.
The defeat extends Germany’s struggles on the biggest stage, marking 12 years without a victory in a World Cup knockout match.
Their last triumph in the knockout rounds came in the 2014 World Cup final, when they defeated Argentina to lift their fourth world title.
For Paraguay, the dramatic victory keeps their World Cup dream alive, while Germany leave the tournament with more questions than answers after another disappointing exit.