Paraguay President Santiago Pena has declared Tuesday a national holiday following the country’s stunning victory over Germany to reach the World Cup round of 16.
Paraguay produced one of the tournament’s biggest upsets by defeating the four-time world champions 4-3 in a penalty shootout after the match ended 1-1 following extra time on Monday.
Announcing the decision on X, Pena said the victory was a moment of national pride.
“Today, an entire country celebrates,” he wrote, alongside a photograph of himself signing the decree.
He said the team reflected the country’s identity through its determination, faith and resilience.
Government says victory unites the nation
The decree, which Pena also shared on social media, stated that the achievement extended far beyond football and deserved nationwide recognition.
It said the government could not remain indifferent to such a significant accomplishment and that the holiday would allow Paraguayans across the country to come together to celebrate the historic occasion.
Second South American nation to make the move
Paraguay became the second South American country to declare a public holiday after recording a surprise World Cup victory over Germany.
Last week, Ecuador President Daniel Noboa also announced a national holiday after Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 in Group E to secure a place in the knockout stage.
