Paraguay’s Mauricio sends strong message to the doubters after massive World Cup upset

Paraguay midfielder Mauricio has heard all the talk before their World CupRound of 32 match against Germany, saying that the national team’s doubters lit a fire under their bellies en route to producing one of the tournament’s biggest upsets so far.

“We made history. Everyone assumed Germany was going to make it through. They were already talking about Germany against (the winner) of the other game. I think we did our job and fought to the end,” Mauricio told reporters via Telemundo.

After barely qualifying for the knockouts with a third-place finish in Group D, La Albirroja drew Germany – the Group E winners – as their Round of 32 opponents. Julio Enciso scored first in the 42nd minute before Kai Havertz scored the leveller 12 minutes later.

The match went to penalties when both teams couldn’t find the match-winner in extra time. Paraguay won 4-3 in the shootout, with Mauricio as one of the scorers.

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June 29, 2026; Foxborough, Massachusetts, U.S.; Paraguay’s Orlando Gill celebrates after the match as Paraguay qualify for the Round of 16 stage of the World Cup. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images

Paraguay goalie and defender Jose Canale played pivotal roles in their upset of Germany, as both were rock-solid on the defensive end, and both stars dedicated the victory to their nation.

“It’s an incredible feeling. It was a tough game. At times, they were attacking us from every angle, but we managed to hold on. We analyzed every player, every aspect, every little detail,” Gill stated. “Thank God I was able to save two penalties. We eliminated a world champion. This is dedicated to all the people of Paraguay.”

I think we deserved one more game, and to be honest considering everything that was said, everything we went through. What I want to highlight from our team is how united we are… Today was a game we really needed to show our true colors,” Canale continued.

Gill produced key saves to prevent Germany from reclaiming the lead, including blocking Kai Havertz’s first penalty in the shootout. Moreover, Canale was a towering presence at the rearguard, as he won all five of his tackles and registered a whopping 15 clearances while scoring the game-sealing penalty kick.