Germany suffered a stunning World Cup elimination as Paraguay advanced 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Boston. The four-time champions never recovered from Julio Enciso's first-half header, despite Kai Havertz's equalizer. This marked Germany's first-ever World Cup shootout defeat and their third consecutive early exit, following group-stage failures in 2018 and 2022.

Julian Nagelsmann's side dominated possession but managed only 0.14 expected goals in the first half. Goalkeeper Orlando Gil saved penalties from Havertz and Nick Woltemade, while José Canale converted the decisive spot-kick. Germany's defensive frailties proved costly again, failing to keep a clean sheet in any of their four matches.

Paraguay's triumph came just two weeks after losing 4-1 to the United States in their opener. They became the seventh of eight third-place qualifiers to reach the last 16, making this perhaps their greatest World Cup achievement. The South Americans defended resolutely and capitalized on Germany's wastefulness.

Nagelsmann admitted Germany are no longer among 'first-class teams' and faces immediate questions about his future. Meanwhile, Paraguay fans celebrated a historic victory that will be remembered regardless of what comes next.