Kai Havertz stood over the spot, the weight of a nation on his shoulders. But his penalty was saved, and with it, Germany's World Cup hopes ended in a 3-4 shootout defeat to Paraguay after a 1-1 draw in the round of 32.
The South Americans, appearing in the expanded tournament's first knockout stage, held their nerve as Germany captain Havertz saw his effort kept out, sparking wild Paraguayan celebrations. It was a staggering early exit for the 2014 champions, who have now not reached the round of 16 since lifting the trophy in Brazil.
“Germany lost 3-4 on penalties to Paraguay after a 1-1 draw, with Kai Havertz missing the decisive spot-kick.”
The match itself had been a tense affair, with both sides locked at 1-1 after extra time. Germany thought they had taken the lead late in extra time through defender Jonathan Tah, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR review. A statement was later issued explaining the decision, though the exact reason was not specified in available sources. The ruling proved pivotal, as Paraguay regrouped and ultimately forced penalties.
For Germany, the defeat marks another low point in a decade of underachievement on the world stage. For Paraguay, it is a historic triumph, booking a place in the last 16 against an opponent yet to be determined.
As the German players slumped to the turf in Stuttgart, Havertz's miss will be replayed for years to come — a symbol of a giant's fall in a tournament already full of surprises.