Group winners Germany face a resurgent Paraguay in the Last 32. Can the Germans' firepower overcome the South Americans' grit?
The knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off with a tantalising clash between Group A winners Germany and a Paraguay side that scraped through as one of the best third-placed teams. For the Germans, anything less than a deep run would be a disappointment, especially after their emphatic 7-1 demolition of Curaçao in the group finale. Paraguay, meanwhile, have shown resilience, holding Australia 0-0 and edging Turkey 1-0 before a 4-1 loss to the United States. This is a tie that pits European pedigree against South American heart.
Summary
Germany topped Group A with six points, their only blemish a 2-1 loss to Ecuador. They responded with a 2-1 win over Ivory Coast and that record rout. Paraguay finished third in Group B with four points, their sturdy defence undone by the USA's pace. The knockout format means no second chances: one slip and you're out. Expect a tense, tactical affair where Germany's creative midfield will look to unlock Paraguay's compact block.
Team News & Form
Germany have no fresh injury concerns. Hansi Flick (or whoever is in charge by 2026) has a fully fit squad. The 7-1 win saw goals from across the team, with Jamal Musiala pulling the strings. Paraguay may be without Miguel Almirón if he fails to recover from a knock; his absence would be a blow. They'll likely stick to a counter-attacking 4-4-2, relying on set pieces and breaks.
Recent form: Germany W-L-W (1-2 vs Ecuador, 2-1 vs Ivory Coast, 7-1 vs Curaçao). Paraguay D-W-L (0-0 vs Australia, 1-0 vs Turkey, 1-4 vs USA). The Germans have scored 10 goals in three games; Paraguay have managed just two.
Key Players
Jamal Musiala (Germany) – The Bayern Munich playmaker has been unplayable, drifting into pockets of space and driving at defenders. His dribbling and vision will be key to breaking down Paraguay's low block.
Antonio Sanabria (Paraguay) – The Torino striker is their main goal threat. He scored against the USA and will need to be clinical on the counter. His hold-up play could also bring others into play.
Predicted Lineups
Germany (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Süle, Rüdiger, Raum; Khedira, Goretzka; Gnabry, Musiala, Sane; Havertz.
Paraguay (4-4-2): Silva; Rojas, Gomez, Balbuena, Alonso; Almiron (if fit), Cubas, Villasanti, Romero; Sanabria, Gonzalez.
Key Battles
Musiala vs Balbuena: Paraguay's centre-back will have to be at his best to contain Musiala's movement. If he drifts wide, the full-backs must stay tight.
Germany's full-backs vs Paraguay's wingers: Kimmich and Raum love to push forward, leaving space for Paraguay's wide men to exploit on the break. The battle on the flanks could decide the game.
Head-to-Head
These sides have met only twice before: a 1-1 draw in a 1958 friendly and a 1-0 Germany win in a 2006 World Cup group stage. History favours Germany, but Paraguay will be no pushovers.
Score Prediction
Germany's attacking depth and tournament experience should see them through, but Paraguay's defensive organisation will make it tough. A 2-0 win for Germany is the likeliest outcome.
Where to Watch
Live on BBC One, ITV, Fox Sports, and streaming platforms. Kick-off is 20:30 UTC on 29 June 2026. Check local listings.
For more on the fixtures and standings, visit our dedicated pages. Follow Germany and Paraguay for full coverage.
