Paraguay dump Germany out of World Cup on penalties

Four-time winners Germany have been knocked out of the 2026 World Cup, losing to Paraguay in a thrilling penalty shootout after it finished 1-1 after extra time. Arsenal forward Kai Havertz and Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade both had their spot-kicks saved by goalkeeper Orlando Gill. But Paraguay twice missed chances to go through as Antonio Sanabria shot wide and Fabian Balbuena’s effort was stopped by 40-year-old Manuel Neuer. However, in sudden death, Jonathan Tah blazed over for Germany before defender Jose Canale scored the decisive kick

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Ronaldo off the mark as Portugal dismantle Uzbekistan

Cristiano Ronaldo announced his arrival at the 2026 World Cup with two goals as Portugal ignited their campaign with a 5-0 thrashing of Uzbekistan. Portugal and Ronaldo were heavily criticised after an uninspiring 1-1 draw in their Group K opener against DR Congo, but they came alive under the roof at the Houston Stadium on Tuesday.

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Merciless Germany put seven past debutants Curaçao

Four-time winners Germany overcame a brief scare from World Cup debutants Curacao before turning on the style to win their Group E opener in Houston. Die Mannschaft went ahead in the sixth minute with the tournament’s earliest goal so far coming from a powerful curling effort from Felix Nmecha. But they were stunned by a leveller from Livano Comenencia. That proved to be a wake up call with the Germans showing no mercy as they pushed on for an emphatic victory.

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