Germany faces Paraguay in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, June 28, at 1:00 PM ET at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, according to confirmed tournament schedules. The match, a pivotal clash in Group C, sees Germany, ranked 12th in the FIFA World Rankings, as the clear favorite against Paraguay, the 34th-ranked team, which has yet to confirm its starting XI. Both teams advanced from the group stage, with Germany finishing top after winning three of their four matches, while Paraguay secured second place with two wins and a draw.
Stakes of the Match: A Crucial Step for Both Teams
The winner of this encounter will advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face the winner of the Belgium vs. Japan group stage. For Germany, this match represents a critical opportunity to build momentum ahead of potential high-stakes encounters against traditional powerhouses like Brazil or Argentina. Paraguay, meanwhile, seeks to extend its World Cup campaign beyond the Round of 16 for the first time since 2010, a feat that would mark a significant milestone for the South American side.
Germany’s manager, Julian Nagelsmann, has emphasized the importance of maintaining composure against a defensively organized Paraguay. “We must be patient, but also decisive when the moment comes,” Nagelsmann said in a press conference on June 25. “Paraguay’s strength lies in their discipline and counterattacking speed, but we have the quality to break them down.”
Tactical Keys: Germany’s Possession vs. Paraguay’s Defensive Resilience
Germany’s tactical approach under Nagelsmann has centered on high pressing and quick transitions, with a focus on leveraging the width of the pitch through wing-backs like Lukas Klostermann and Davy Klaassen. The team’s attacking trio of Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, and Kai Havertz has been particularly effective, scoring 11 goals in the group stage. However, Paraguay’s coach, Rodolfo Damari, has signaled a shift toward a more conservative strategy, prioritizing defensive organization and counterattacks.
Paraguay’s defensive line, featuring captain Sebastián Coates and central defender Paulo Da Silva, has conceded just two goals in the group stage. Damari’s team has also relied on the pace of forward Santiago Arias and the creativity of midfielder Érick Pulgar to create chances. “We will play with confidence and respect,” Damari said in a pre-match interview. “Germany is a strong team, but we believe in our ability to compete.”
Injuries and Key Player Availability
Germany has managed to avoid major injury setbacks, with key players like Joshua Kimmich and Manuel Neuer remaining fit. However, winger Serge Gnabry was listed as a “question mark” after a minor hamstring strain in the final group match against Costa Rica. Coach Nagelsmann confirmed on June 26 that Gnabry is “likely to play but may start on the bench.”
Paraguay’s injury list includes forward Alejandro Alvarado, who is sidelined with a knee ligament tear, and defender Diego Rojas, who is recovering from a foot fracture. The absence of Alvarado, who scored three goals in the group stage, could impact Paraguay’s attacking options. Instead, the team may lean on the versatility of midfielder Cristian Riveros to provide an added attacking threat.
What to Watch: Set Pieces and Defensive Discipline
Set pieces are expected to play a crucial role in this match. Germany’s set-piece routines, led by captain Manuel Neuer and free-kick specialist Toni Kroos, have been a source of goals, with three direct free-kick goals in the group stage. Paraguay, however, has shown resilience in defending set pieces, conceding just one goal from such situations.
Defensive discipline will be paramount for both teams. Germany’s high press has been effective in disrupting opponents, but Paraguay’s ability to retain possession under pressure could test the German midfield. Conversely, Paraguay’s defenders must avoid costly mistakes, as Germany’s forwards have been clinical in converting chances.
Historical Context: A Clash of Styles
This will be the third meeting between Germany and Paraguay in FIFA World Cup history. The previous encounters were in 1998 and 2010, with Germany winning both matches. In
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