Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has admitted his side can no longer be considered among football’s elite after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in the Round of 32.
The four-time world champions were knocked out 4-3 on penalties after the match ended 1-1 following extra time, extending Germany’s disappointing run in recent major tournaments.
The defeat sparked fierce criticism back home, with Germany’s Bild newspaper describing the elimination as the country’s “next football nightmare.”
Germany, ranked 10th in the world, dominated possession with 75 per cent against 41st-ranked Paraguay but struggled to break down a disciplined defence.
Paraguay took a surprise first-half lead through former Brighton and Ipswich forward Julio Enciso before Arsenal striker Kai Havertz levelled the scores early in the second half with a glancing header.
Germany thought they had completed the comeback when Jonathan Tah headed home, but the goal was ruled out for a foul in the build-up after a VAR review.
The match remained level through extra time and headed to penalties, where Germany’s previously flawless World Cup shootout record came to an end.
Havertz saw Germany’s opening penalty saved, while Newcastle United forward Nick Woltemade also failed from the spot. Although Paraguay missed two of their own attempts, Tah blasted his penalty over the crossbar before defender Jose Canale converted the decisive kick to send the South Americans through.
The elimination continues Germany’s decline at the World Cup. Since lifting the trophy in Brazil in 2014, they have failed to progress beyond the group stage in two tournaments before exiting at the first knockout hurdle this year.
Reflecting on the defeat, Nagelsmann acknowledged the team’s fall from football’s top tier.
“When you exit the World Cup after you play Paraguay it is very bitter. It is very hurtful,” he said.
“This is the third elimination in a row, so we are not part of the first-class teams any more.”
