ριβEssay on Germany after the exclusion: Shame, humiliation and questioning for Nagelsmann

Germany's national football team suffered a crushing defeat in their World Cup quarter-final match against Paraguay on June 29, 2026, losing 1-1 after extra time and then falling 3-4 in the penalty shootout. This result marked a third consecutive failure to advance beyond the group stage in major tournaments, sparking intense criticism both domestically and internationally. The loss has been described as a "new nightmare" for German football, with many observers calling it a "humiliating" exit and questioning the leadership of head coach Julian Nagelsmann.

The match was played in front of a large crowd at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, where Germany had entered the tournament as one of the favorites. Despite dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities, the German team struggled to break down Paraguay’s disciplined defense. Their first goal came in the 42nd minute when Enisio scored following a well-timed cross from Galárraga. Germany responded in the 55th minute when Kai Havertz equalized with a powerful header after a corner kick from Benjamin Veret.

Despite these moments of promise, the game remained tightly contested throughout, with neither side able to create clear-cut chances. As the match progressed into extra time, both teams were visibly fatigued, and the tension in the stadium grew palpable. In the end, it was the penalty shootout that decided the outcome, with Germany failing to convert three crucial penalties. Paraguay’s goalkeeper Orlando Gil made two vital saves, including one from Germany’s captain, Manuel Neuer, which proved decisive.

German media outlets have been scathing in their coverage of the defeat. *Bild*, one of Germany’s most influential newspapers, labeled the loss as “a new nightmare” for German football and gave Nagelsmann the lowest possible rating of six under the country’s grading system. The newspaper criticized the team’s performance as “disastrous,” describing them as “slow, lethargic, and unimpressive.” *Süddeutsche Zeitung* called the defeat “the final humiliation,” noting that Germany had failed to make a convincing impression in the tournament since their heavy 7-1 loss to Curacao in the group stages.

This result marks another low point for German football, which has struggled to replicate its past successes in recent years. Germany has won the World Cup four times—in 1954, 1974, 1990, and 2014—but has now experienced three consecutive failures to reach the knockout rounds of major tournaments. They missed the round of 16 in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups and also failed to qualify for the semifinals in the 2024 European Championship.

Critics argue that the current squad lacks the cohesion and attacking flair that characterized previous successful teams. Nagelsmann, who took charge of the national team in October 2023, faces mounting pressure to deliver results before his contract expires in 2028. His inability to develop the team’s potential has led some to question whether he should continue in his role.

The defeat has also sparked broader discussions about the state of German football. Many analysts believe that the sport is slipping behind other global powers, and there is growing concern over the lack of investment in youth development and infrastructure. With this latest setback, the German Football Association (DFB) will need to reassess its strategies to ensure future success on the international stage.

Meanwhile, Paraguay celebrated a historic victory, securing their place in the quarter-finals for the first time in their history. Their goalkeeper, Orlando Gil, emerged as a hero, making two crucial saves during the penalty shootout. The win has elevated Paraguay’s status in world football, and they now look forward to facing either France or Sweden in the next round.

As the dust settles on this dramatic encounter, all eyes will be on how Germany responds. With their reputation on the line, the DFB must act swiftly to address the issues that have plagued the national team and restore confidence among fans and supporters alike.