Paraguay's Goal Drought in Knockout Matches
Paraguay have not scored a goal in five consecutive knockout games. While statistics are factual, they may not fully reflect the challenges Paraguay have posed to strong teams.
The eventual champions France required the World Cup’s first Golden Goal to defeat Paraguay in 1998; the finalists from 2002 were tested by the lesser-known Oliver Neuville.
In 2010, after defeating Japan on penalties following a 0-0 draw, Paraguay gave Spain a significant challenge. Even in 1986, despite a heavy loss to England, Paraguay had opportunities to take the lead.
Germany's Return to Knockout Stage After 12 Years
Welcome to live, detailed coverage of the match titled "4369 Days Later," marking the duration since Germany’s last knockout game. This was an unexpected situation considering Mario Götze scored the winning goal against Argentina in the 2014 final.
Paraguay have waited even longer to return to this decisive stage, but as they are not Germany, the anticipation is less intense. They remain semi-forgotten quarter-finalists from 2010, when they gave eventual winners Spain a considerable scare before losing 1-0. Oscar Cardozo had a second-half penalty saved when the score was 0-0.
Match Expectations and Stakes
Germany enter the match as strongish favourites; however, their 12-year absence from the knockout rounds indicates that traditional expectations around Germany and the World Cup are no longer guaranteed. The winner of this match will face either France or Sweden in the last 16.
Kick-off is scheduled for 4.30pm EDT / 9.30pm BST / 6.30am AET.
