Germany's dramatic exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 has taken another controversial turn following reports that four players declined to take the decisive sixth penalty during the team's Round of 32 shootout defeat against Paraguay. The four-time world champions were eliminated 3-2 on penalties after the match ended 1-1, extending Germany's disappointing run in recent World Cups. The reported reluctance of senior players has sparked widespread debate over the team's mentality and leadership during one of its most crucial moments.

According to reports, defender Jonathan Tah stepped forward to take Germany's sixth penalty only after Leon Goretzka, Waldemar Anton, Nathaniel Brown and Malick Thiaw reportedly hesitated when asked to take the spot kick. Tah, who had never taken a penalty in his professional career, accepted the responsibility after the shootout entered sudden death. His effort, however, missed the target, handing Paraguay a historic victory and knocking Germany out of the tournament.

German media reported that captain Joshua Kimmich twice asked experienced midfielder Leon Goretzka to take the penalty, but the veteran reportedly declined both times. Goretzka, who has earned more than 70 international appearances and was among Germany's senior players, was considered one of the natural choices for the pressure kick. The reported refusals from multiple players have intensified criticism of Germany's performance and decision-making under pressure.

Also Read: Brazil's Patience Pays Off As They Finally Hit Top Gear At World Cup

Germany had entered the tournament with high expectations after opening their campaign with a commanding 7-1 victory over Curaçao. However, signs of inconsistency soon emerged as they narrowly defeated Ivory Coast before suffering a 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in the final group-stage match. In the knockout round against Paraguay, Germany thought they had found a winner in extra time, but Jonathan Tah's header was ruled out following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, sending the contest to penalties.

The penalty shootout proved decisive as Germany missed three attempts, with Kai Havertz, Nick Woltemade and Jonathan Tah all failing to convert. Paraguay capitalised on the missed opportunities to secure one of the biggest victories in the nation's football history. The defeat also meant Germany failed to progress beyond the Round of 32, continuing a worrying trend of early exits in recent FIFA World Cup campaigns.

The latest reports have fuelled discussions about Germany's future under head coach Julian Nagelsmann and the team's ability to cope with high-pressure situations. While neither the German Football Association nor the players involved have officially commented on the reported penalty refusals, the revelations have added to the criticism surrounding Germany's disappointing tournament and are likely to prompt further examination of the squad's leadership and mental resilience ahead of future international competitions.

Also Read: Germany Face Paraguay in Round of 32 After Group Stage Loss to Ecuador