Paraguay Declares Holiday After Historic Win Over Germany
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Paraguay has declared a national holiday after its national football team pulled off a historic victory over four-time world champion Germany, defeating them in a penalty shootout to advance to the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup.
After securing a dramatic World Cup berth through the South American qualifiers and opening the tournament with a heavy defeat, Paraguay turned its campaign around with one of the biggest upsets of the competition.
The victory also served as redemption for Paraguay's knockout-stage loss to Germany at the 2002 World Cup.
As Paraguay sealed the shootout win, many fans back home had just finished watching the match and were preparing to leave for work. Moments later, the government announced a nationwide public holiday.
President Santiago Peña said, “In recognition of the Paraguayan national football team's historic victory over Germany, June 30 is hereby declared an official national holiday. The entire nation will celebrate this historic achievement together.”
In its official statement, the government said the victory represents more than just sporting success, calling it a symbol of national unity, confidence, and resilience.
Earlier in the tournament, Ecuador also declared a national holiday after defeating Germany during the group stage.
