Individual criticism: The DFB-Elf as a total failure with few glimpses of light

Germany’s national football team suffered a crushing defeat in their World Cup quarterfinal against Paraguay on June 29, 2026, exiting the tournament after losing a dramatic penalty shootout. The match, which took place in Boston, ended with Germany failing to advance beyond the round of 16 for the second consecutive World Cup, marking another significant setback for the German Football Association (DFB). Despite efforts by several players to rally the team, the overall performance was described as one of the worst in recent memory by critics and analysts alike.

The game itself was a disappointment for fans and observers, with Germany struggling to find cohesion both offensively and defensively. From the outset, the team appeared disjointed, lacking the fluidity and intensity that had characterized previous campaigns. While some moments of promise emerged—such as Manuel Neuer’s early save and Joshua Kimmich’s high ball involvement—the overall execution fell far below expectations. Germany failed to create clear chances, and when they did, they were often squandered due to poor finishing or defensive errors. The lack of unity among players was evident throughout the match, contributing significantly to the eventual loss.

Key figures within the team faced sharp criticism following the defeat. Manuel Neuer, returning to the national team after his 2014 World Cup triumph, was forced into action early but could not prevent the first goal. His decision to punch away a corner instead of catching it sparked debate about his form and confidence. Meanwhile, Joshua Kimmich, despite being the most active player in terms of ball touches, struggled to make an impact, particularly under pressure from Paraguay’s forward Julio Enciso. His inability to deliver meaningful passes into dangerous areas highlighted a major issue in the team’s build-up play.

Defensive midfielder Jonathan Tah came close to scoring a crucial goal but saw it disallowed byVAR, adding to the frustration of the German squad. Antonio Rüdiger, who was given more space than his teammates, failed to capitalize on opportunities to initiate attacks effectively. His defensive contributions were solid, but his lack of creativity in possession was glaring. Nathaniel Brown and Aleksandar Pavlovic, both expected to provide energy and physical presence, were criticized for their lack of coordination and effectiveness in critical moments. Their failure to track opponents and maintain defensive shape contributed directly to the goals conceded.

The defeat has reignited discussions about the state of German football and its direction moving forward. Former England international Gary Lineker, known for his candid assessments, remarked that Germany was “living in the past” and that this current team was among the weakest he had seen. His comments were met with resistance from within the team, notably from Kai Havertz, who dismissed such external criticism as irrelevant. However, the broader sentiment among pundits and supporters was that the team needed a fundamental shift in approach, both tactically and mentally.

Julian Nagelsmann, the head coach, hinted at potential tactical changes ahead of the match, though he remained cautious about revealing too much to avoid giving Paraguay’s coach, Gustavo Alfaro, an advantage. Alfaro, known for his deep analytical style and nicknamed “El Profesor,” had transformed Paraguay into a competitive force after taking charge of the team two years prior. His strategic preparation paid off, as Paraguay executed their plan effectively, exploiting weaknesses in Germany’s defense and midfield.

As the dust settles on this disappointing exit, questions remain about how Germany can recover from this setback. With the next World Cup cycle approaching, there will likely be calls for restructuring within the DFB, including new coaching appointments, youth development programs, and a renewed focus on building a cohesive, competitive team. For now, the defeat serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing German football and the need for a comprehensive overhaul to regain its former glory on the world stage.