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Paraguay declares national holiday after shock World Cup win over Germany

ReutersReuters30 Jun 2026, 06:03
Paraguay declares national holiday after shock World Cup win over Germany

Paraguay has declared a national holiday after a dramatic 4–3 penalty shootout victory over Germany in the World Cup round of 16. President Santiago Peña praised the team’s resilience and national spirit, calling the win a historic moment that goes beyond sport and warrants nationwide celebration.

Paraguay President Santiago Pena declared a national holiday for Tuesday to celebrate the country's ​shock victory over Germany that sent them ‌into the World Cup round of 16.

The South American side stunned four-time world champions Germany 4-3 on penalties after the teams were ​tied 1-1 following extra time on Monday, pulling ​off one of the biggest upsets in ⁠World Cup history.

"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 text of the decree, also shared by Pena on social ‌media, ⁠said that Paraguay's victory went far beyond sport and justified a nationwide celebration.

"The government cannot remain indifferent to this tremendous achievement," the decree read. "It is necessary ​to facilitate the ​gathering of ⁠all Paraguayans in celebration of this historic day."

Paraguay is the second South American ​country to declare a holiday after a ​surprise ⁠World Cup result against Germany at the tournament.