Paraguay eliminated four-time champion Germany from the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, winning a 4-3 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in extra time. The upset officially secures Paraguay’s advancement to the Round of 16.
And the reaction was immediate. The Paraguayan government formally declared a nationwide public holiday strictly in response to the victory.
Large crowds formed almost instantly. Fans celebrated both domestically across Paraguay and physically outside the Boston Stadium venue following the final kick. The official government declaration confirmed the sudden public policy shift for the nation.
Germany’s early exit in the Round of 32 ends their tournament run. The four-time World Cup winners will not advance further in the 2026 bracket.