The president of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, signed Decree No. 6280 this Monday, June 29, by which he declares Tuesday, June 30, 2026 as a national holiday to commemorate the historic triumph of the Paraguayan team over Germany and its qualification to the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In the decree, the president highlights the “epic triumph” of the Albirroja against the four-time world champion and highlights that the soccer players “demonstrated to the world the truth of the immortal phrase that identifies us as a country: ‘Win or die’.”
The document also points out that Paraguay “has demonstrated to the world the full validity of the mythical ‘guaraní claw'” and affirms that the National Government “cannot be oblivious to this tremendous achievement”, which is why it decided to grant the national break so that citizens can celebrate the historic classification.
The measure is based on Law No. 7544/2025, which empowers the Executive Branch to institute national holidays in special situations, as well as article 238, paragraph 1, of the Paraguayan Constitution, which grants the president the power to direct the general administration of the country.
The decision comes hours after one of the greatest feats in Paraguayan football. La Albirroja eliminated Germany after drawing 1-1 in regulation time and overtime, to win 4-3 in the penalty shootout with Orlando Gill being a great figure by stopping two shots.
Qualification also meant a historic revenge for Paraguay, which 24 years ago had been eliminated by Germany in the round of 16 of the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup with a goal from Oliver Neuville in the 88th minute.
With this result, the team led by Gustavo Alfaro advanced to the round of 16 and now awaits the winner of the key between France and Sweden, while the country celebrates one of the most important victories in its history in the World Cups.
The decree was signed in Asunción this June 29 and will come into force on Tuesday, June 30, 2026.