Germany's forward #19 Leroy Sane, midfielder #10 Jamal Musiala and defender #24 Malick Thiaw react after losing the penalty shootout during the 2026 World Cup round of 32 football match between Germany and Paraguay at the Boston Stadium in Foxborough on June 29, 2026. Photo: Mauro Pimentel / AFP / Lehtikuva
Germany and the Netherlands suffered surprise exits from the FIFA World Cup after losing penalty shootouts to Paraguay and Morocco in a dramatic night of knockout football, while Brazil reached the last 16 with a stoppage-time winner against Japan.
Germany's elimination ended a long record of success in World Cup shootouts and triggered criticism at home over both the team's performance and a VAR decision that ruled out a goal in extra time.
Paraguay beat Germany 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It marked Germany's first defeat in a World Cup penalty shootout after winning its previous four.
The defining moment arrived during extra time. Jonathan Tah headed Germany into what appeared to be a 2-1 lead from a corner in the 104th minute. German players celebrated before referee Jalal Jayed halted proceedings for a video review.
