In dramatic fashion, Germany lost on penalties to Paraguay and were eliminated from the World Cup in the first knockout round of the tournament. This is their third consecutive disappointment in the World Cup, and their first World Cup defeat on penalties.
Kai Havertz and Nick Voldemort missed the shootout, but Manuel Neuer kept the team in it. In sudden death, Jonathan Tah was incensed and Jose Canales converted to be sent home to Germany.
Germany recovered from slow start
Germany struggled early and fell a goal behind when Paraguay’s first attack of the game ended in a goal. An unmarked Julio Enciso, only 168 cm tall, headed home from near the penalty spot. It was a poor look at Germany’s defence, but also an indictment of the harmlessness of Germany’s attack up to that point.
For the third consecutive game in this tournament, Germany needed something to spark life. With the introduction of Deniz Undav, the Supersub had to be found elsewhere. Leon Goretzka was called on, but a tactical change to pass the ball more resulted in an equaliser.
back from the brink
Kai Havertz’s glancing header from Florian Wirtz’s cross pushed Nagelsmann’s team back from the brink. This was followed by a brief period of attacking pressure, but Germany could not make the most of its quick pace.
And thus the game went into extra time. Jonathan Tah appeared to give Germany the lead, but the goal was denied due to a push from Paraguay goalkeeper Waldemar Anton. After this, Germany tried its best but could not find any winner.
Then came the fine. Then came another dramatic World Cup departure for Germany.
Paraguay will face either France or Sweden in the round of 16 on July 4 in Philadelphia.
Edited by: Wesley Dockery