Overview
- Paraguay beat Germany on penalties 4-3 after a 1-1 draw, advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals in a result widely described as a sensational upset.
- Julio Enciso, 22, opened the scoring with a header and remained central as the tie went to spot kicks where Paraguay prevailed.
- Enciso broke into tears after the match and said he dedicated the win to his late grandfather, whom he has often credited with encouraging his World Cup dream.
- Enciso's resurgence at Racing Club Strasbourg follows a mixed spell in England, a record €11m move to Brighton, and a 2023/24 torn lateral meniscus that sidelined him for over six months.
- The victory boosts Paraguayan belief and puts them on course to play either France or Sweden in the quarterfinals, a result that could raise Enciso's international profile and affect his club prospects.