From warriors to legends: Paraguay declares national holiday after historic win

Paraguay erupted in celebration on Tuesday after President Santiago Peña declared a national holiday to mark the country's astonishing World Cup triumph over Germany, hailing a victory that transformed a squad of underdogs into national icons.

The South American nation is basking in one of the greatest moments in its footballing history after Paraguay stunned four-time world champions Germany 4-3 on penalties following a gripping 1-1 draw after extra time, securing a place in the Round of 16 and writing a new chapter in World Cup folklore.

"Today, an entire country celebrates," Pena wrote on social media while sharing an image of himself signing the 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 presidential decree described the result as an achievement that transcended sport, saying Paraguay's historic feat deserved a nationwide 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."

Scenes of jubilation unfolded across the country as supporters flooded streets, squares and public spaces, celebrating a victory few had predicted after Paraguay's difficult start to the tournament.

Coach Gustavo Alfaro, who had faced criticism following a heavy 4-1 defeat to co-hosts the United States in their opening match, said his players had earned a place in the nation's history.

"We never believe that we are beaten," Alfaro told reporters after the dramatic shootout. "Twenty-six warriors went out there and they came back as legends."

Paraguay's road to the knockout stage had been anything but straightforward. After the setback against the United States and a modest return in the group phase, few expected them to overcome Germany, a side renowned for its pedigree on the biggest stage.

Yet Paraguay rose to the occasion.

Julio Enciso gave the South Americans a surprise lead in the 42nd minute with a towering header before Kai Havertz restored parity in the 54th minute.

Germany dominated large stretches of the contest and even had a goal ruled out, but Paraguay's resilience remained unbroken as they battled through 120 minutes before prevailing in the shootout.

Jose Canale converted the decisive penalty despite two Paraguayan players having missed earlier attempts, sealing Germany's first-ever World Cup defeat in a penalty shootout.

"If we had not learned from the loss, we would not have been prepared for this match," Alfaro said. "I told the players that we have lived through an epic evening."

The Argentine manager reserved special praise for Canale, whose career has been shaped by loan spells and difficult periods across Paraguay, Argentina and Mexico.

"Canale is one of life's champions because he has had to go through a lot of adversity," Alfaro said. "A night like this is one of the gifts that life can give you. It's divine justice."

Paraguay became the second South American nation during the tournament to declare a public holiday after defeating Germany, following Ecuador's decision to do the same after its group-stage victory over the European giants.

For Paraguay, however, this moment carries even greater significance. What began as a campaign clouded by doubt has become a national celebration of perseverance, belief and identity.

The 26 players who stepped onto the pitch as outsiders have returned home immortalised as heroes, carrying with them the hopes of a nation dreaming that its remarkable World Cup journey is far from over.

Paraguay will now face either France or Sweden in the Round of 16 on July 4.