Paraguay Makes History by Eliminating Germany in a Penalty Shootout
Photo Reuters.
Paraguay have written history by booking their place in the World Cup Round of 16. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, they defeated four-time champions Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout to secure the greatest victory in their nation's history. Producing the biggest upset of this World Cup, Paraguay sent Germany packing.
In the six-shot shootout, José Canalé converted the decisive penalty to take Paraguay through to the last 16.
Germany's Kai Havertz, who had leveled the score in normal time, missed the very first spot-kick. Mauricio scored to put Paraguay ahead. For Germany, Joshua Kimmich and Jamal Musiala then found the net, while Paraguay's Gustavo Gómez and Matías Galarza kept their lead intact with successful conversions. Then came the drama: Paraguay goalkeeper Gil saved Nico Oltmeier's attempt.
Antonio Sanabria failed to seal the win for his side as his shot went wide, keeping Germany's hopes alive. Nadim Amiri scored to make it 3-3, and German keeper Neuer then denied Fabián Balbuena's effort. The match went to sudden death. However, Tah's shot sailed over the crossbar, and Canalé beat Neuer to hand Paraguay the ticket to the Round of 16.
On July 4, at 3:00 AM Bangladesh time, Paraguay will play their quarter-final berth-deciding match in Philadelphia. Meanwhile, Germany's wait for a fifth world title has been extended by another four years.
