Germany Coach Nagelsmann Criticizes Disallowed Goal After Paraguay World Cup Win

Germany was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup in the round of 32 after losing to Paraguay in a penalty shootout following a 2-1 defeat in regular and extra time. The match, held between June 30 and July 1, saw a controversial moment in the 102nd minute when Germany's Jonathan Tah scored a header that was disallowed by referee Jelal Jaïd after a VAR review. The officials ruled that Waldemar Anton obstructed Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Chil, despite minimal contact seen in replays. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann sharply criticized the decision, calling it "a complete joke" and lamented the early knockout exit as insufficient for German football standards.

Nagelsmann, whose contract was recently extended through Euro 2028, confirmed he does not intend to resign, stating he will continue if the German Football Association wants him to. Tah also missed Germany's sixth penalty, contributing to their 4-3 shootout loss. Paraguay, coached by Gustavo Alfaro, celebrated a historic victory. Alfaro credited a heavy 4-1 opening loss to the United States for preparing his team for this moment, calling his players "26 warriors who returned as legends."

Paraguay took the lead in the 42nd minute through Julio Enciso, but Kai Havertz equalized for Germany in the 54th. Paraguay then defended their lead and held on through the disallowed German goal and the remainder of the match. Alfaro praised José Canale, who scored the decisive penalty, calling him "a champion of life" after overcoming many challenges in his career. Paraguay will face either France or Sweden in the round of 16 on July 4.