Paraguay Beats Germany on Penalties and President Declares National Holiday

Overview

• Paraguay eliminated Germany after a 1–1 draw that went to extra time and a 4–3 penalty shootout, securing a place in the World Cup round of 16.
• President Santiago Peña posted celebratory messages on X and issued a presidential decree making the following day a national holiday to mark the victory.
• The decree was published on the president’s social accounts and identified as Decreto nº 6280 in reporting that described energized public reactions across Paraguay.
• The holiday coincides with the 68th Mercosul summit in Asunción where leaders including Lula, Javier Milei, Yamandú Orsi, José Antonio Kast and Daniel Noboa are attending.
• Brazil is set to announce an increase in its annual Focem contribution from US$70 million to US$100 million for ten years at the summit, linking the sporting celebration to a substantive regional policy move.