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Peter Fitzpatrick·29. Juni 2026
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Peter Fitzpatrick·29. Juni 2026
After being stretchered off in tears in Paraguay's final World Cup warm-up game, Julio Enciso could have been forgiven for thinking his dream was over.
Just over three weeks later, he's living both his own dream and that of every single one of his countrymen after heading in a shock opener against Germany.
After a mostly drab 42 minutes, the Strasbourg star connected with Matías Galarza's inviting cross into the box, sending the ball past a motionless Manuel Neuer.
It not only set up a potential shock result, but also made history with it the first goal scored by Paraguay in a World Cup knockout game at the sixth attempt.
This is the fifth time Paraguay have made it out of the group stage, but they have only ever won one knockout game, beating Japan 5-3 on penalties in 2010 after a goalless draw.
If they are to hold on here, Enciso will be the man to thank, as he has been throughout an incredible tournament for the 22-year-old.
What a turnaround in fortunes for a player long destined for the top, who looks to be having his breakout summer!
📸 Alexander Hassenstein - 2026 Getty Images







































