Havertz: 'Germany No Longer Among World's Elite'
US—After Paraguay eliminate Germany in World Cup 2026 round of 16, forward Kai Havertz admit playing poorly, say Germany no longer among top teams.
Gillette Stadium June 29, Germany control 75% possession, shoot three times more (21-7). Dominant stats not enough for four-time champions beat Paraguay.
Germany concede in 42nd minute from Julio Enciso header. Havertz equalize early second half. South American side defend tough, keep 1-1 through 120 minutes, force penalty shootout. Havertz miss first penalty. Germany lose 3-4.
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- Paraguay open score.
Havertz accept blame, admit poor form, apologize to fans. "Second World Cup, play bad again. Recent tournaments terrible. Only can say sorry," he say. "We disappointed. Feel it in dressing room. High expectations for this year."
Forward Kai Havertz (No. 7) try pass defender Jose Canale (No. 13) in Germany - Paraguay match in World Cup 2026 round of 16 at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, near Boston, US on June 29, 2026. Photo: AP
Havertz say Paraguay play deep defense, leave no space. Germany struggle to attack fast, hit wall. 27-year-old forward say team try attack flanks, cross ball to score equalizer. Havertz admit overall play not enough for good result.
Asked if Germany still among top teams, Havertz say: "Seems not. Major tournaments, we not play too bad, but always lack something. Today same. Players must look at self, cannot blame coach."
Enciso credit win to fearless spirit. "Respect them, know they good, but fear no one," Strasbourg player in French Ligue 1 say.
Julio Enciso (No. 19) celebrate opening goal in Paraguay penalty shootout win over Germany in World Cup 2026 round of 16 at Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Massachusetts, US on June 29, 2026. Photo: AP
After beat Germany, Paraguay face France or Sweden. Win again, Paraguay equal best World Cup run: 2010 quarterfinals. Then, South American side beat Japan on penalties, lose 0-1 to champion Spain.
Enciso admit big challenge ahead, but Paraguay not afraid. "France strong team, top players," he say. "No need name them, all stars. But we have strength, make it hard for opponent with teamwork."
- Germany equalize 1-1.
Paraguay coach Gustavo Alfaro praise players for great performance, execute tactics, limit Germany control. Argentine coach admit hot weather in Massachusetts drain player fitness.
"Match high intensity," Alfaro say. "We lack things, but demand high. Heat make pressing, ball recovery drain energy. No pain, no gain. Shootout go to sixth round, dramatic."
- Paraguay decisive penalty.
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