FIFA Word Cup 2026: Germany vs Paraguay Live Details, Preview, Lineups

| FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 | |
| SCHEDULE | TIME |
| Match: | Germany vs Paraguay |
| Tournament: | FIFA 2026 |
| Match Date: | June 30 2026 |
| Match Time: | 2:00 a.m. Indian Time (UTC +5:30) |
| Stadium: | - |
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Preview: Germany vs Paraguay
Match Preview
Germany reached the knockout stage as Group E winners, but their group campaign was not without warning signs. They started strongly with a dominant win over Curaçao and followed it up with a late victory over Ivory Coast, yet a 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in the final group game raised questions about their defensive balance and rhythm.
Nagelsmann has plenty of attacking quality available, with Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and Leroy Sané all capable of deciding the match. Germany’s challenge will be to turn possession into clear chances while avoiding the kind of defensive lapses that Paraguay will look to punish on the counter.
Paraguay finished third in Group D and qualified as one of the best third-placed teams. Their tournament began with a heavy defeat to the United States, but they recovered with a narrow win over Türkiye and a disciplined draw against Australia. That resilience will be central to their approach against Germany.
Gustavo Alfaro’s side are expected to stay compact, close central spaces and rely on quick transitions. The return of Miguel Almirón is a major boost, giving Paraguay pace and creativity in attacking areas. However, Diego Gómez is suspended, which weakens Paraguay’s midfield options.
Team News
Germany are without Nico Schlotterbeck, who has been ruled out of the rest of the tournament with an ankle injury. Nathaniel Brown is expected to be available again, which could allow Germany to return to a more familiar back-four shape.
Deniz Undav has made a strong case for a starting role after impressive substitute appearances, but Nagelsmann is still expected to trust Kai Havertz as the central forward, with Musiala, Wirtz and Sané supporting him.
For Paraguay, Miguel Almirón is available again after suspension, while Diego Gómez misses out due to accumulated yellow cards. Omar Alderete has been an injury concern, so Paraguay may need to adjust their defensive setup depending on his fitness.
Predicted Lineups
Germany predicted XI:
Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Rüdiger, Brown; Pavlović, Nmecha; Sané, Wirtz, Musiala; Havertz
Paraguay predicted XI:
R. Fernández; Cáceres, G. Gómez, Balbuena, Alonso, Alderete; Cubas, Bobadilla, Galarza; Almirón, Enciso
Note: Official starting lineups are usually confirmed around one hour before kick-off.
Key Players to Watch
Jamal Musiala, Germany
Musiala’s ability to receive between the lines and beat defenders one-on-one could be vital against a compact Paraguay block. If Germany are struggling to break through, his dribbling and quick combinations may become decisive.
Florian Wirtz, Germany
Wirtz gives Germany creativity in central areas. His movement around the edge of the box and final pass could be key if Paraguay defend deep.
Miguel Almirón, Paraguay
Almirón’s return is huge for Paraguay. His speed on the break can stretch Germany’s defence and give Paraguay a real outlet when they win possession.
Gustavo Gómez, Paraguay
The Paraguay captain will have to lead from the back. His duel with Germany’s forwards could shape the tempo and direction of the match.
Tactical Battle
Germany will likely dominate possession and try to overload Paraguay in wide and half-space areas. Kimmich’s role from right-back, Wirtz’s creativity and Musiala’s movement will be important in pulling Paraguay out of shape.
Paraguay’s plan should be clear: stay compact, defend the box strongly and attack quickly when Germany commit numbers forward. Their best chances may come from transitions, set-pieces and moments when Almirón or Enciso can isolate defenders.
The first goal will be crucial. If Germany score early, Paraguay may be forced to open up. If Paraguay keep the game level deep into the second half, pressure will increase on the four-time world champions.
Germany vs Paraguay Prediction
Germany have more quality, more depth and more attacking options, but Paraguay are unlikely to make this easy. The South American side have enough defensive discipline and counter-attacking threat to frustrate Germany for long periods.
Still, if Germany’s attacking midfield clicks, they should have enough to advance.
Prediction: Germany 2-0 Paraguay
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