Germany does not do easy. Twelve years after lifting the trophy in Brazil, the Germans returned to the World Cup knockout stage on June 29, 2026, and immediately reminded everyone why watching them is equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. Paraguay led at halftime. Germany clawed back. Now it goes to extra time.

The round of 32 match at Foxborough, Massachusetts, had all the ingredients of a classic tournament upset brewing before Germany steadied the ship.

How it unfolded

Paraguay drew first blood through Julio Enciso, who headed the ball home to give his side a 1-0 lead going into the break.

Germany had other ideas. Kai Havertz provided the equalizer in the second half, also with a header.

The goal sent the match to extra time. Two 15-minute periods will be played before the match proceeds to a penalty shootout if neither side can find a winner.

Why this World Cup is different

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first edition to feature 48 national teams, expanding from the 32-team format that defined the tournament since 1998.

The expanded format introduced a round of 32, which is where Germany and Paraguay find themselves. This marks the first time the Germans have reached the knockout stages since their 2014 World Cup triumph in Brazil. The reigning champions from that era exited in the group stages in both 2018 and 2022.

What to watch in extra time and beyond

Extra time in a World Cup knockout match is its own distinct psychological battlefield. For Germany, the priority is simple: avoid penalties if possible, but do not fear them if necessary. For Paraguay, holding on through extra time and forcing a shootout would represent one of the more remarkable results in this tournament so far.

Germany equalized. The match is level. Everything else is still to be decided on the pitch in Foxborough.