Paraguay's national team goalkeeper, Orlando Gil, has revealed his meticulous preparations before their World Cup clash against Germany, a match that saw his country sensationally knock out the European giants. Paraguay held Germany to a 1-1 draw in regular time, ultimately triumphing 4-3 in a dramatic penalty shootout. The 198cm tall shot-stopper, who plays for San Lorenzo in the Argentine league, had thoroughly researched every detail of Germany's penalty takers. He saved efforts from Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade before Jonathan Tah sent his shot high over the bar, marking Germany's first-ever World Cup exit via a penalty shootout.
When asked if his heroic penalty saves were due to instinct or careful preparation, Gil told the Paraguayan newspaper "ABC": "I analyzed every player, every aspect of their game, every detail, and thank God, I managed to save two penalties, which proved crucial for our qualification."
The imposing goalkeeper had kept Paraguay's hopes alive even during regular time and extra time, denying shots from Havertz and Woltemade earlier in the match. However, he admitted it was far from easy.
"It was truly like a horror movie – I was making saves, but the Germans just kept coming at us from everywhere. I still can barely believe what we managed to achieve. Honestly, there are no words for this moment. There are so many emotions," Gil stated.
As thousands poured into the streets of Paraguayan cities to celebrate the elimination of the four-time world champions, the goalkeeper sent a new message to his homeland. The Man of the Match dedicated his award to his nephew, who is seriously ill and hospitalized.
"This special award is for my nephew, who is seriously ill and in the hospital. We hope he recovers soon, and I promised him I would dedicate this award to him if I was chosen as Man of the Match," Gil said, without providing further details about the illness.