German chancellor draws Bild's fury after calling penalty exit 'thrilling' for the nation

Germany’s shock World Cup elimination at the hands of Paraguay has sparked a political row, with chancellor Friedrich Merz drawing widespread criticism after describing the four-time champions’ penalty shootout defeat as something that had ‘thrilled our country’.

Paraguay knocked Germany out in the round of 32 — the Germans’ first World Cup knockout fixture in 12 years — after Jonathan Tah missed the decisive penalty. Germany had fallen behind before Kai Havertz equalised in the second half, but despite their strong historical record from the spot, they could not hold their nerve when it mattered.

Merz took to social media in the aftermath, writing: “Even though the elimination hurts: What a game, @DFB_Team! With your commitment and team spirit at this World Cup, you have thrilled our country. We are proud of you.”

The response from Germany’s press was swift and scathing. Bild editor-in-chief Marion Horn wrote directly to the chancellor: “I am not proud. I’m angry. I’m disappointed. I’m furious! Our children only know Germany as a loser! German football is now living solely off its past reputation.” The tabloid declared Germany’s overall World Cup showing a total “disaster” and accused Merz of completely misreading the national mood.

Die Welt was equally blunt, running the headline “Germany isn’t Germany anymore” following what it framed as the latest in a series of major tournament failures.

The exit has intensified calls for head coach Julian Nagelsmann to step down. The former Bayern Munich manager was also in charge at Euro 2024, and Germany have now been eliminated in three consecutive major tournaments. The continued absence of Jürgen Klopp from club management has kept speculation alive about a potential return to the national setup.

Nagelsmann, however, indicated he intends to stay if his employers back him. “This is now the third elimination in a row, so we are not part of the first-class teams anymore,” he said. “I am disappointed.” He stopped short of announcing his resignation, leaving his future subject to a decision from the German Football Association.