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In a surprising turn of events, Germany has been eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup prior to the pre-quarterfinals. The team faced Paraguay and lost in a dramatic penalty shootout after the match ended in a 1-1 draw following regular and extra time. The tension escalated during extra time when a goal by Jonathan Tah was disallowed after a VAR review, leaving the German squad in disbelief.

Initially, it seemed that Tah had scored a header to give Germany the lead. However, the VAR officials identified a foul by German player Waldemar Anton on Paraguay's goalkeeper, Orlando Gill, just before the goal. Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed reviewed the footage and ultimately ruled the goal invalid.

Alan Shearer, the former England captain, expressed strong disapproval of the referee's decision, labeling it a "very soft" foul. He stated, "With 13 players in the penalty area, such minor contacts shouldn't be called as fouls. The goalkeeper went down far too easily," during an interview with a media outlet. Additionally, ex-World Cup assistant referee Darren Cann noted that such calls often favor goalkeepers.

Germany entered the penalty shootout as the favorites, but the outcome was disappointing. Key players Kai Havertz, Niclas Völtemede, and Jonathan Tah all failed to convert their penalties. Paraguay, despite missing two of their own, secured a 4-3 victory in the shootout.

This defeat is being regarded as one of the most significant embarrassments in the history of German football. Fans are voicing their belief that the referee's contentious decision altered the match's trajectory and deprived Germany of a likely win.