2026 World Cup: Germany in shock and trailing—over 300 passes (compared to 55) without a single shot on goal

A first half to forget for Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany in their 2026 World Cup Round of 16 match against Paraguay. The Germans find themselves down by one goal after dominating possession in the first half, but without ever having taken a shot on goal.

More specifically, Germany maintained possession for 79% of the time, a disproportionate figure that led to nothing: zero big chances, zero shots on target against Paraguay. In total, Wirtz and his teammates passed the ball to each other 308 times—90% of their total passes—compared to 55 by the South Americans.

Paradoxically, it was the Paraguayans who created the only two chances of the first 45 minutes, including the opening goal, scored by Enciso off a corner kick. In the 42nd minute, Galarza sent a cross into the box, and Enciso’s header left Neuer with no chance.

For Paraguay, it was their first-ever goal in a World Cup knockout stage match. Germany must bounce back in the second half, or it will be an epic failure.