Germany begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout campaign against Paraguay at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, with Julian Nagelsmann’s side aiming to take another step toward a fifth world title.

Germany vs Paraguay Match Preview

Match News and Current Form

Germany qualified for the Round of 16 as Group E winners despite suffering a surprise 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in their final group match. Having already secured top spot, the result did little damage, but it exposed defensive weaknesses that Nagelsmann will be eager to address before the knockout rounds.

Despite conceding regularly, Germany remain one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacking teams. They have scored freely throughout 2026 and six of their last seven matches have seen both teams find the net. With quality throughout the squad and a wealth of attacking options, Die Mannschaft will be confident of responding strongly.

Paraguay secured their place in the knockout stage after grinding out a goalless draw against Australia. While their defensive resilience has been impressive, their attacking output remains limited, with the South Americans scoring no more than once in each of their last six World Cup matches.

They reached the quarter-finals in 2010 but have never scored in a World Cup knockout match. Facing one of the tournament favourites presents another difficult challenge, especially with key absentees in midfield and defence.

Head-to-Head Record

Germany and Paraguay last met in a thrilling 3-3 international friendly in 2013.

Germany have traditionally performed well against South American opposition at the World Cup, while Paraguay have beaten European opponents only three times this century.

Hot Stats and Trends

• Six of Germany’s last seven matches saw both teams score.
• Five of Germany’s last six World Cup games produced over 2.5 goals.
• Paraguay have scored only once in each of their last six World Cup matches.
• Paraguay have scored exactly once in six of their last eight defeats.
• Germany have scored 2+ goals in six of their last seven matches.

Key Players to Watch

Germany – Deniz Undav

Undav has been Germany’s impact player during the group stage, contributing three goals and two assists despite playing fewer than 90 minutes in total.

Paraguay – Matías Galarza

Galarza has emerged as one of Paraguay’s brightest attacking threats after scoring twice in his last three international appearances.

Team News

Germany remain without Nathaniel Brown and Lennart Karl, while Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup through injury.

Paraguay have major concerns with Diego Gómez suspended and Omar Alderete doubtful for this knockout clash.

Germany vs Paraguay Betting Tips

✅ Germany to Win

Germany possess superior quality, greater attacking depth and considerably more experience in World Cup knockout football.

✅ Both Teams To Score – Yes

Germany have struggled to keep clean sheets recently, while Paraguay have managed to find a goal in many recent defeats.

✅ Over 4.5 Goals

Germany’s attacking style and recent scoring record suggest another entertaining knockout encounter.

Correct Score Prediction

Germany 4-1 Paraguay

Germany should dominate possession and create plenty of chances, while Paraguay have enough quality to grab a consolation goal before the four-time world champions comfortably book their place in the quarter-finals.

Final Prediction

Germany to Win ✅

Both Teams To Score – Yes ✅

Over 4.5 Goals ✅

Correct Score: Germany 4-1 Paraguay ✅

Germany’s attacking firepower should prove too much for Paraguay, who may struggle to cope with the pace and creativity of Nagelsmann’s side over 90 minutes.