Germany’s World Cup 2026 campaign ended in Boston after a 3-4 penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay. The DFB side was eliminated despite a 1:1 draw after extra time - and a controversial VAR call. Last result: Germany 1-1 Paraguay (2026-06-29).
What happened in the match?
Paraguay came out firing early, with Junior Alonso nearly opening the scoring from a corner before hitting the post. The South Americans then parked the bus, absorbing pressure and launching counters. Germany struggled to break them down until Kai Havertz equalized in the 54th minute. But in the shootout, the nerves failed. Havertz was among those who missed, and the DFB bowed out. „I have no words. This was my second World Cup - and for the second time, we’ve messed it up“, he told Sportschau.
Why did Germany crash out?
Defensive errors did the damage. Manuel Neuer failed to hold a routine corner, Nathaniel Brown and Aleksandar Pavlović miscued on the left, and Felix Nmecha left Julio Enciso unmarked in the box. Paraguay converted, and though Havertz pulled one back, their structure never recovered. The Germans managed just a handful of half-chances against a side that thrived on physicality and aggression.
Nagelsmann’s future in doubt
With another early exit, Julian Nagelsmann’s position is under threat. „I’m not running away, but the decision isn’t mine“, he said after the match. His contract runs until 2028, yet football’s harsh realities loom large. The DFB hierarchy must now act - or face more frustration.
What’s next for Germany?
The Mannschaft must regroup. Their next outing is a daunting trip to the Netherlands on 24 September 2026. But before that, the Nagelsmann question looms large. The mood is sour, the criticism is rising. A fresh start is needed - but whether it arrives remains unclear.
