Germany was knocked out of the World Cup in the round of 32 after a dramatic penalty shoot-out defeat to Paraguay, following a controversial VAR decision that disallowed what would have been a go-ahead goal for the Germans in extra-time.

The incident occurred in the first half of extra-time at the Boston Stadium, when Bayern Munich defender Jonathan Tah thought he had put Germany ahead for the first time in the match. However, after Tah had celebrated, Paraguay players appealed that goalkeeper Orlando Gill had been fouled. Referee Jalal Jayed was advised by the Video Assistant Referee to review the incident at the pitch-side monitor.

Following his review, Jayed announced that the goal had been disallowed due to a foul committed by Germany substitute Waldemar Anton.

The decision proved pivotal, as neither side could find a winner before the end of extra-time, forcing the first penalty shoot-out of the 2026 World Cup.

Paraguay emerged victorious from the shoot-out, with Germany’s Kai Havertz, Nick Woltemade, and Tah all failing to convert their spot-kicks. Paraguay had two opportunities to seal the win before defender José Canale ultimately scored the decisive penalty.

Paraguay advance to the last 16, where they will face the winners of the match between France and Sweden. Meanwhile, Germany is left to reflect on a controversial refereeing decision as their wait to reach a World Cup last-16 round extends into a 16th year.