Few believed Paraguay would eliminate four-time world champions Germany before the Round of 32 clash kicked off. Germany entered the match as one of the tournament favourites, while La Albirroja was widely viewed as the underdog. After 120 minutes of relentless defending and a dramatic penalty shootout, however, Paraguay produced one of the biggest upsets of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The victory secured Paraguay’s place in the Round of 16. International celebrities celebrated Paraguay as social media quickly filled with reactions, with public figures from different entertainment fields joining the conversation. From football legends to actors, writers, and content creators, many have praised Paraguay’s resilience, discipline, and fighting spirit. The Asunción Times collected them for you.
Global reactions flood social media
Zlatan Ibrahimović praises Paraguay’s defensive display
Former Sweden striker Zlatan Ibrahimović, speaking on FOX Sports, highlighted Paraguay’s defensive organisation and the outstanding performance of goalkeeper Orlando Gill.
“The goalie of Paraguay might have had the game of his life. And then when it comes to penalties, 50/50, there is no favourite winning in penalties. But Paraguay is solid, defending good and keeping that box tight.”
Salma Hayek congratulates Paraguay
Hollywood actress Salma Hayek joined the celebrations with a heartfelt Instagram post following the final whistle. Sharing footage of Paraguay’s victory and the celebrations in Asunción, she congratulated the national team on its historic achievement.
“Congratulations to Paraguay’s national team on this historic victory over Germany. With courage and heart, representing the resilience of the Paraguayan people,” she wrote, adding the hashtag #OrgulloParaguayo.
Check Salma’s post on Instagram.
Denílson salutes La Albirroja
Former Brazil international Denílson , a FIFA World Cup winner in 2002, also reacted on Instagram. The ex-winger praised Paraguay’s determination and celebrated the result in an enthusiastic video, highlighting the magnitude of eliminating one of football’s traditional powerhouses. His reaction quickly circulated among South American football fans, who applauded the sporting respect shown by the Brazilian legend. Check Denílson’s post on Instagram.
Leonel Fransezze celebrates like a Paraguayan
Argentine-Bolivian content creator Leonel Fransezze, known for his comedy sketches, reacted after Paraguay’s victory over Germany. After the match ended, he shared a celebratory message that read: “Qué lindo día para ser paraguayo”, meaning “What a beautiful day to be Paraguayan.”
His video quickly gained traction, receiving thousands of interactions from Paraguayan supporters who joined in the celebrations. Check Fransezze’s post on Instagram.
Thomas Müller applauds Paraguay
Despite Germany’s painful elimination, the Eruopean country’s veteran forward Thomas Müller showed sportsmanship after the match. In a social media comment that quickly spread online, he congratulated Paraguay on the victory and acknowledged the quality of the performance that ended Germany’s World Cup campaign.
“Credit to Paraguay, they have fought for every ball, defended with incredible heart, and made Germany look ordinary. They have earned this moment, and no one can take it away from them.”
Check the full comments from Müller on X.
Rob Schneider joins global celebrations
American actor Rob Schneider also reacted on X after Paraguay’s historic victory over Germany. Posting in Spanish, he wrote: “Por un día glorioso, EL MUNDO ENTERO ES PARAGUAY.” (On this glorious day, THE WHOLE WORLD IS PARAGUAY.)
The message of the 50 First Dates, The Waterboy, and Big Daddy actor resonated with football fans who celebrated the global attention surrounding La Albirroja’s unexpected triumph.
Dolores Reyes joins celebrations with emotional post
Argentine writer Dolores Reyes also reacted to Paraguay’s historic victory over Germany on Instagram. She shared a picture of player Maurício Magalhães Prado and added an enthusiastic caption that read: “VAMOS PARAGUAY LOCO!!!” (“COME ON, PARAGUAY!!!”)
Her post was appreciated by her literary fans, who highlighted the emotional and cultural impact of Paraguay’s unexpected triumph. Check Reyes’ post on Instagram.
A victory that resonated far beyond football
Paraguay’s historic win over Germany has become more than a sporting upset. It has evolved into a global cultural moment, as international celebrities celebrate Paraguay. From emotional messages to brief celebratory posts or stories on social media. Paraguay will now face its next challenge on 4 July against France.
