Advertisement
Paraguay declares public holiday after stunning World Cup triumph over Germany
30th June, 2026 04:46 PM
Paraguay has declared Tuesday, June 30, 2026, a national holiday after the country’s remarkable victory over Germany secured a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16.
President Santiago Pena announced the decision following Paraguay’s dramatic penalty shootout success over the four-time world champions. The South Americans prevailed 4-3 from the spot after the match ended 1-1 following extra time, producing one of the tournament’s greatest shocks.
Sharing the announcement on X alongside an image of himself signing the official decree, Pena wrote: “Today, an entire country celebrates.”
He added: “It celebrates the victory of a team that represents the deepest part of our identity: the grit, the faith, and the strength of people who never give up.”
The presidential decree, also published on social media, stated that the achievement represented far more than a sporting success and deserved nationwide recognition.
“The government cannot remain indifferent to this tremendous achievement,” the decree said. “It is necessary to facilitate the gathering of all Paraguayans in celebration of this historic day,” he added.
Paraguay becomes the second South American nation during this World Cup to declare a public holiday after defeating Germany in a surprise result.
Earlier in the competition, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa also granted a national holiday after Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 in their Group E encounter to secure qualification for the knockout rounds.
Secret weapon
Meanwhile, Paraguay’s players and coaching staff have credited confidence, careful planning and unwavering determination after shocking four-time world champions Germany in a penalty shootout to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 on Monday, June 29, 2026.
The South Americans sealed a dramatic 4-3 victory on penalties following a 1-1 draw, producing one of the tournament’s biggest surprises while ending Germany’s perfect record in World Cup shootout contests.
Following Paraguay’s maiden victory in a World Cup knockout fixture, head coach Gustavo Alfaro paid tribute to his squad’s remarkable achievement.
“I had 26 warriors before the match, and they became legends after it,” Alfaro said. “Maybe we’ll be eliminated in the next round, maybe not. We’ll see. But this match was epic.”
