Orlando Gill’s penalty saves lift Paraguay past Germany at World Cup

Paraguayan goalkeeper Orlando Gill, 26, became a national hero after his saves in a penalty shoot‑out helped Paraguay defeat Germany and reach the World Cup round of 16. Gill kept clean sheets in the group matches against Turkey and Australia, then made crucial interventions in extra time before stopping Kai Havertz and Jonathan Tah in the shoot‑out, allowing José Canale’s winning spot‑kick to seal a 4‑3 victory.

Born in San Lorenzo, Gill grew up in poverty and once sold his own football gear and his U‑20 national team jersey to fund medical care for his ill son. Initially a striker, he was forced to become a goalkeeper in his teens, later joining Argentine club San Lorenzo de Almagro, where he earned a first‑team place and a contract through 2027. His performance in Qatar earned him widespread acclaim and the nickname “national hero” in Paraguay.