Paraguay is currently in the midst of a grand celebration. President Santiago Peña has officially declared June 30, 2026, a national holiday to honor the national team’s historic triumph over Germany in the World Cup Round of 32.
The decision was a natural response to the nationwide euphoria following one of the tournament's most sensational upsets.
How it Happened
The Paraguayan national team, known as the 'Albirroja,' delivered a truly heroic performance. After regulation and extra time, the match against the four-time world champions remained deadlocked at 1-1. The Paraguayans ultimately proved superior in the penalty shootout, winning 4-3.
Goalkeeper Orlando Gil emerged as the hero of the match by saving two crucial spot-kicks. Players and fans alike celebrated with an intensity that suggested they had won the entire tournament.
President Peña personally signed Decree No. 6280 and issued a heartfelt public statement:
"Giant Paraguay! Today, the entire nation celebrates. We honor the victory of a team that embodies the most profound traits of our identity: the tenacity, faith, and strength of a people who never surrender. Thank you, 'Albirroja,' for this boundless joy and for once again uniting millions of Paraguayans under a single flag. Forward, Paraguay!"
National Reaction
Mass celebrations broke out across the country as people took to the streets with flags and car horns blared, while the hashtag #GiganteParaguay immediately trended on social media. For a nation that rarely topples elite teams on the world stage, this was truly an event of national significance.
The Albirroja’s next Round of 16 fixture was set against the winner of the France-Sweden clash.
Although Paraguay’s journey eventually ended with a 1-0 loss to France—courtesy of a 70th-minute penalty by Kylian Mbappé—the holiday has already secured its place in history.
France advanced to the quarterfinals, where they are scheduled to face Morocco.
