Paraguay Celebrates Historic World Cup Victory Over Germany with National Holiday

Asuncion. Paraguay has been celebrating across the country since Tuesday after reaching the knockout stage of the World Cup football by stunning four-time world champion Germany in a penalty shootout.

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña has declared a national holiday across the country to celebrate this unprecedented victory. After the exciting match ended in a 1-1 draw after extra time, Paraguay defeated Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout, adding a new chapter to World Cup history.

President Peña shared a picture of himself signing the holiday decision on social media and wrote, 'The whole country is celebrating today. This victory belongs to a team that represents the deepest part of our identity, the resilience, faith, and strength of people who never give up.' The government decree stated that this achievement is a historic success beyond sports and a holiday is necessary to involve all citizens in the celebration.

Paraguay's team and coach Gustavo Alfaro faced severe criticism after a heavy 4-1 defeat against co-host USA in the opening match of the World Cup. However, by passing the group stage, the team has surprised everyone by defeating a strong team like Germany. Coach Alfaro said that his players have become immortal in history, saying, 'We never gave up, the 26 warriors who took to the field have returned as legends today.'

Paraguay took the initial lead through Julio Enciso's excellent header in the 42nd minute, but Germany's Kai Havertz equalized in the 54th minute. Although Germany dominated most of the game and had one goal disallowed, Paraguay's defense continued to fight hard for 120 minutes.

Although two Paraguayan players missed their penalties in the shootout, Jose Canale converted the decisive penalty to secure the team's victory. This is the first time in World Cup history that Germany has been defeated in a penalty shootout.

Coach Alfaro, of Argentinian origin, described this victory as 'divine justice' for the life of the decisive goal scorer Canale, who has faced many ups and downs and struggles in his playing career. Paraguay has become the second South American country to declare a national holiday by defeating Germany in the ongoing World Cup; Ecuador had also declared a holiday after defeating Germany in the group stage.

Paraguay's team, which was under suspicion in the initial match, has now become a national hero. Paraguay will now face either France or Sweden in the Round of 16 match on July 4.