Germany return to the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2014 as they face Paraguay in the Round of 32 at Foxborough. While Julian Nagelsmann’s side enter as favourites, Paraguay will be hoping to recreate the giant-killing spirit that carried them to the quarter-finals in South Africa 2010.

Germany Looking to Rebuild Momentum

Germany secured top spot in Group E despite ending the group stage with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Ecuador. Having already guaranteed qualification, the loss served as a reminder that defensive issues continue to linger for Die Mannschaft.

Julian Nagelsmann dismissed suggestions that his squad lacked the right mentality after the defeat, but Germany’s recent World Cup record remains below their lofty standards. Since winning the 2014 final against Argentina, they have failed to keep a clean sheet in the competition, although their attacking quality has largely compensated for defensive vulnerabilities throughout 2026.

Paraguay Hoping to Spring a Surprise

Paraguay reached the knockout rounds for the first time since 2010 after grinding out the results they needed in Group G. However, their cautious 0-0 draw with Australia raised questions after they generated just 0.24 expected goals despite needing only a point to advance.

History is also against La Albirroja. Paraguay have never scored in five previous World Cup knockout matches, but memories of their quarter-final run in South Africa remain a source of inspiration. Their inconsistent recent form makes them difficult to predict, with four wins and four defeats in their last eight matches.

Head-to-Head

The sides last met in an entertaining 3-3 friendly in 2013.

Germany’s defeat to Ecuador snapped a four-match winning streak against South American opposition at the World Cup, while Paraguay’s group-stage victory over Turkey marked their third World Cup win over European opponents this century.

Key Statistics

• Six of Germany’s last seven matches have seen both teams score.
• Five of Germany’s last six World Cup games have featured over 2.5 goals.
• Paraguay have scored no more than once in each of their last six World Cup matches.
• Paraguay have scored exactly once in six of their last eight defeats.

Players to Watch

Deniz Undav has emerged as Germany’s impact player, producing three goals and two assists despite playing fewer than 90 minutes across the group stage.

For Paraguay, Matías Galarza arrives in good form after scoring one of their two group-stage goals and has now found the net in two of his last three international appearances.

Team News

Germany remain without Nathaniel Brown, while defender Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out for the remainder of the tournament after suffering an injury against Ivory Coast.

Paraguay could be missing Omar Alderete through injury, while influential midfielder Diego Gómez serves a suspension.

Prediction

Germany possess considerably more attacking firepower, but their inability to consistently keep clean sheets leaves the door open for Paraguay to make things interesting. Paraguay’s disciplined defensive approach should keep the contest competitive, although Germany’s superior quality is expected to secure progression.

Prediction: Germany 3-1 Paraguay

Best Bet: Both Teams to Score (Yes).