ASUNCION, Paraguay — Paraguay declared Tuesday a national holiday after the country’s stunning World Cup victory over Germany, with President Santiago Peña calling the triumph a moment that transcended sport and united the nation in celebration.
The government announced the holiday hours after Paraguay eliminated four-time world champion Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time, producing one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 World Cup and advancing to the round of 16.
“Today, an entire country celebrates,” Peña wrote on X alongside a photograph of himself signing the presidential decree. “It celebrates the victory of a team that represents the deepest part of our identity: the grit, the faith, and the strength of people who never give up.”
The decree, which Peña also shared on social media, described the result as a historic national achievement deserving of widespread public celebration.
“The government cannot remain indifferent to this tremendous achievement,” the decree stated. “It is necessary to facilitate the gathering of all Paraguayans in celebration of this historic day.”
The victory sparked celebrations across Paraguay after the national team secured its most significant World Cup result in decades by defeating one of international football’s traditional powers.
Paraguay’s players prevailed in a tense penalty shootout after holding Germany to a draw through 120 minutes, handing the European giant its first-ever World Cup defeat from the penalty spot.
The national holiday makes Paraguay the second South American country during this tournament to suspend normal activities in recognition of a major World Cup victory over Germany.
Last week, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa also declared a national holiday after Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 during the Group E stage to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
Paraguay will now continue its World Cup campaign in the round of 16, carrying the momentum of a victory that has already secured a lasting place in the country’s sporting history.
