The group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has concluded, and the matchups for the Round of 32 have been revealed and are now underway.
Germany, winners of Group E, will face underdogs Paraguay, who finished third in Group D, in the first round of the knockout stage in Boston.
Germany, who are back in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since 2014, enjoyed a successful showing in their opening three matches, scoring a total of 10 goals. They dominated Curaçao 7-1 in their opening match before coming from behind to defeat Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 thanks to a 94th-minute winner from Deniz Undav.
After strong performances in their first two matches and already having secured qualification, Germany looked a bit flat in their final group-stage game against Ecuador, losing 2-1. Although they are still clear favorites, Germany would have hoped to carry their winning momentum into the knockout stage, and Paraguay will be looking to capitalize on that.
Paraguay advanced as one of the third-placed teams from Group D after totaling four points from their three matches. Their qualification was nearly secured after a crucial 1-0 victory over Türkiye, meaning they only needed a point against Australia in their final group-stage match to advance.
Paraguay responded well after a disappointing opening match against the United States, in which they conceded four goals. Since then, however, they have not conceded in either of their last two matches thanks to a sturdy defensive performances.
Although Paraguay has rediscovered its defensive identity, they has scored just two goals in the tournament and will need to be at their very best to compete with a Germany side that scored 10 goals in three group-stage matches.
Keep an eye on German stars such as Kai Havertz and Leroy Sané, as well as Deniz Undav, who leads the team with three goals. Paraguay will rely on Miguel Almirón and goalscorer Matías Galarza to get on the scoresheet in what will be a huge matchup for the South Americans.