Attacking dominance: Germany in control, wasteful in key moments
Germany dictated the game offensively with 75% possession and 799 passes at 90% accuracy, compared to Paraguay’s 257 passes at 63%.
They produced 21 shots to Paraguay’s 7, including 6 on target and 11 inside the box, while also forcing 16 corners and delivering 56 crosses with 10 accurate. Germany created 10 key passes and 2 big chances, but only converted once.
Despite sustained pressure, their final-third efficiency was lacking, with 7 shots off target and 2 blocked efforts stopping momentum at crucial stages. Paraguay’s goalkeeper and defensive shape repeatedly disrupted Germany’s attack in dangerous areas.
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Defensive resilience: Paraguay absorb pressure and strike back
Paraguay’s defensive performance was decisive in keeping them alive. They recorded 33 tackles, 13 interceptions, and 76 duels won, consistently breaking up Germany’s attacking flow.
They also won 19 successful headers and stayed compact despite facing 139 dangerous attacks from Germany. Even with just 25% possession, Paraguay remained structured, limiting clear chances while relying on transitions and set-piece moments to stay in the match.
Paraguay attempted fewer dribbles (33 vs 14), but were more effective in direct duels and second-ball situations, resisting Germany’s sustained pressure.
Both teams finished with 2 yellow cards, but Paraguay’s defensive discipline under extreme pressure stood out as they absorbed wave after wave of attacks.
Fine margins decide it
Germany’s dominance in territory, possession, and passing was clear, but Paraguay’s defensive resilience and efficiency in key moments carried them through to penalties.
In the shootout, Paraguay held their nerve to complete a famous upset, eliminating Germany 4–3 and advancing to the last 16.
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Photo: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters/Winslow Townson
