BOSTON, Massachusetts – Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak after a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay, extending the country’s recent struggles on football’s biggest stage despite progressing beyond the group phase for the first time since 2018.
The four-time world champions were beaten 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time, marking the first time Germany have lost a World Cup match in a penalty shootout. The result also meant Julian Nagelsmann’s side fell short of expectations for the third consecutive tournament.
Midfielder Kai Havertz, who missed one of Germany’s penalties, apologised to supporters after the defeat.
“Only thing I can say is I’m sorry. To disappoint again is not a nice feeling,” Havertz told German broadcaster ZDF.
“We tried to [attack via] the flanks, but unfortunately it didn’t really work out. And I don’t think we deserved to win this time.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also reacted to the elimination, praising the team’s effort despite the disappointing outcome.
“Even though the elimination hurts: What a game,” Merz wrote on social media. “With your dedication and team spirit at this World Cup, you’ve inspired our country. We’re proud of you.”
Germany entered the knockout match hoping to bounce back after a defeat to Ecuador in the group stage had disrupted their momentum. Ahead of the clash, Nagelsmann had urged his players to adopt what he described as a “scumbag mentality” to overcome the challenges of knockout football, but his side struggled to impose themselves against a disciplined Paraguay team.
Paraguay took the lead through Julio Enciso, whose header exposed Germany’s defensive frailties. Germany responded in the second half as Havertz headed home the equaliser after tactical adjustments saw the team rely more on crosses into the box.
The equaliser briefly raised hopes of a comeback, but Germany failed to find a winner. Jonathan Tah thought he had scored in extra time, only for the goal to be ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
After the match, Nagelsmann criticised the decision, describing it as “scandalous,” while admitting his side should have settled the contest before the shootout.
Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup hopes faded in the penalties as Havertz and Nick Woltemade failed to convert. Although goalkeeper Manuel Neuer kept his team alive with a crucial save after Antonio Sanabria also missed for Paraguay, Tah sent Germany’s sudden-death penalty over the bar before Jose Canale converted the decisive spot kick to send Paraguay through.
Attention has now turned to the future of the national team. Questions remain over the international futures of several senior players, including captain Joshua Kimmich, Antonio Rüdiger, Leon Goretzka and Leroy Sané, while scrutiny has also shifted to Nagelsmann despite his contract running until 2028.
“I’m here to work and if the DFB decides otherwise then they should tell me,” Nagelsmann said. “I’m not the type of person who runs away.”
Germany’s latest World Cup disappointment is expected to trigger another period of reflection as the country seeks to rebuild a team capable of competing among football’s elite once again.