World Cup 2026: Paraguay shock Germany to win penalty shoot-out

South American football expert Tim Vickery felt that the typical Paraguayan spirit shone through on the day.

“Paraguay loves suffering.”

“If you’re looking for someone to relate to in this World Cup, look for Paraguay. That Welsh word ‘hwyl’, that grit and drive, when the going gets tough, they’re alive.

They have gone through hardships to beat European football giants. It’s not always pretty, they play within their limits, but what a drama, what a story.

“The goal of this tournament was to make Paraguay feel represented and they did that perfectly.”

Paraguay will now play two-time champions France or Sweden in Philadelphia on Saturday (22:00 BST).

Paraguayan President Santiago Pena had already declared a public holiday after finishing World Cup qualifiers.

Now, with a place in the last 16 assured, attention turns to what could be in store next for the celebrations.

Head coach Alfaro said he spoke to the president yesterday.

“He might as well declare another national holiday,” he joked.

“I want all Paraguayans to enjoy this. We may have our flaws, but we have a heart that doesn’t give up, and that’s what keeps us alive.”