2026 W’CUP: Things To Know As Germany Face Paraguay Test

Germany return to the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2014 as they face Paraguay in Monday’s Round of 32 clash.

Die Mannschaft topped Group E despite ending the group stage with a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Ecuador after surrendering an early lead. Julian Nagelsmann’s side had earlier defeated Curaçao and Iran to secure top spot and remain among the favourites to challenge for the title.

Paraguay, meanwhile, progressed as one of the best third-placed teams after collecting four points from three matches in Group D. Gustavo Alfaro’s side secured a vital victory over Türkiye before settling for a goalless draw against Australia to book their place in the knockout rounds.

While Paraguay have impressed defensively, their struggles in front of goal remain a concern heading into a difficult encounter with the four-time world champions.

Germany vs Paraguay prediction

Germany to reach the Round of 16

Germany will be overwhelming favourites to progress despite their defeat to Ecuador. Nagelsmann’s men have looked dangerous in attack throughout the tournament and possess significantly more quality across every area of the pitch.

Paraguay are expected to adopt a disciplined defensive approach and attempt to frustrate Germany, but their lack of attacking threat could prove costly against one of the competition’s strongest sides.

Germany’s attacking efficiency has been one of their biggest strengths, with the likes of Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz consistently creating and converting chances.

Paraguay, however, have struggled to create clear opportunities, managing one of the tournament’s lowest attacking outputs during the group stage. They will likely rely on counter-attacks and set pieces if they are to cause an upset.

Prediction: Germany 2-0 Paraguay

Germany team news

Julian Nagelsmann is expected to make only minor adjustments to the side that lost to Ecuador.

Nathaniel Brown could return at left-back after missing the previous match through injury, although David Raum remains on standby if the Bayern Munich-bound defender is not fully fit.

Antonio Rudiger and Jonathan Tah are expected to continue their central defensive partnership following Nico Schlotterbeck’s earlier injury, while Kai Havertz should retain his place up front despite pressure from Deniz Undav.

Germany predicted lineup (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Rudiger, Brown; Nmecha, Pavlovic; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Havertz.

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Paraguay team news

Paraguay welcome back Miguel Almiron after the winger completed his one-match suspension and he is expected to slot straight into the starting lineup.

However, Diego Gomez misses out through suspension after accumulating yellow cards, dealing a significant blow to Paraguay’s attacking options.

Defender Omar Alderete remains a fitness concern after suffering an injury against Australia, with Gustavo Alfaro prepared to switch to a back four if necessary.

Paraguay predicted lineup (4-4-2): Gill; Caceres, G. Gomez, Velazquez, Alonso; Almiron, Galarza, Cubas, Mauricio; Avalos, Enciso.

Match details

Location: Foxborough, Massachusetts, United States

Stadium: Gillette Stadium

Date: Monday, June 29, 2026

Kick-off: 9:30 p.m.

Referee: Jalal Jayed (Morocco)