Germany were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup by Paraguay, 1-1 and a 4-3 defeat on penalties. But what angered the fans most was not the result: it was what happened before the sixth kick.
According to Bild and Focus, Joshua Kimmich asked Leon Goretzka twice, 31, if he wanted to take it. There was no positive response. Nor from Waldemar Anton, Nathaniel Brown, or Malick Thiaw.
The ball ended up at the feet of Jonathan Tah, a defender who had never taken a professional penalty. He missed, and José Canale sealed Paraguay’s historic qualification.
Some say that Goretzka, who once described himself as a role model for younger players, betrayed that role at the worst possible moment. Others believe that no one is obliged to take it if they do not feel ready. Which side are you on? ⚽🇩🇪