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Rabat – Germany and Paraguay have confirmed their starting lineups ahead of their decisive Round of 32 encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, taking place today at Boston Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
The match, officiated by Moroccan referee Jalal Jayed, marks Germany’s first World Cup knockout appearance in 12 years.
Germany starting lineup
M. Neuer, J. Kimmich, A. Rüdiger, J. Tah, N. Brown, F. Nmecha, A. Pavlovic, L. Sane, K. Havertz, F. Wirtz, D. Undav.
Paraguay starting lineup
O. Gill, J. Caceres, G. Gomez, J. Canale, J. Alonso, A. Cubas, M. Almiron, D. Bobadilla, M. Galarza, J. Enciso, G. Avalos.
Germany seek control, Paraguay hold shape
Germany enter the fixture as winners of Group E, although their campaign has not been without setbacks. Julian Nagelsmann’s side opened with a commanding 7-1 victory over Curaçao before securing a 2-1 win against Ivory Coast.
However, a 2-1 loss to Ecuador in their final group match exposed defensive weaknesses and raised concerns ahead of the knockout stage.
Nagelsmann described Paraguay as an “uncomfortable” opponent and warned that his players must deliver a near-perfect performance.
“They are an uncomfortable opponent for us,” he said. “They defend well, stay compact, and have strong physical players. It’s a do-or-die match. We need patience and a complete performance.”
Germany will be without center-back Nico Schlotterbeck, who suffered a serious ankle injury and will miss the remainder of the tournament.
Paraguay arrive after finishing third in Group D, progressing as one of the best third-placed teams with four points and a goal difference of -2.
Gustavo Alfaro’s side adjusted their approach following a 4-1 defeat to the United States in their opening match. A more cautious system allowed them to secure back-to-back clean sheets against Turkiye and Australia.
The South American side face selection issues of their own. Diego Gomez is suspended, while Omar Alderete remains a doubt. Earlier in the tournament, Miguel Almiron’s absence also forced tactical changes.
Paraguay have struggled in attack, producing just 1.1 expected goals across three matches. Julio Enciso has yet to find consistency in the final third.
Despite recent criticism, Nagelsmann backed his squad to respond.
“If you win everything is perfect; if you lose everything is bad,” he said. “We work well together and believe in our quality. We want to show that as a team.”
With Germany’s attacking strength set against Paraguay’s defensive discipline, the outcome may depend on efficiency in front of goal and control in key moments.
