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By Jordan Sigler
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Germany was sent home early from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing 4-3 to Paraguay on penalties in the Round of 32 on Monday in front of 63,945 fans at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer made two saves but gave up one goal in the loss. He gave up one more goal than Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill in penalties. The deal at the hands of Paraguay will be Neuer's final game for Germany.
On his Instagram page, Neuer announced his retirement from the German national team on Wednesday, calling it an "honor" to play. He believes Germany was capable of going further in this year's tournament.
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"Getting out early at the World Cup is extremely sobering," Neuer wrote. "We are clearly behind expectations and should have advanced in this tournament. This ending hurts like hell. I had deliberately decided to play for Germany once again. One, because I have always been very proud to wear the national team jersey.
"Secondly, because with my 40 years and experience from 4 World Cup tournaments, I also wanted to support the young players both on and off the field in the best way possible and to help Soccer Germany. Despite the bitter ending, I don't regret this step for a second."
Neuer, 40, decided to initially retire after the UEFA Euro in 2024, but came out of retirement in May to play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He won the World Cup with Germany in 2014, earning the Golden Glove award in the tournament.
Neuer thanked German fans for supporting his storied career, but expressed disappointment at the way he went out.
"My disappointment is beyond words, yet a deep sense of gratitude remains," he wrote. "Thank you for your support over the years and during this tournament."
Germany sent three goalkeepers to the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Neuer, Oliver Baumann and Alexander Nubel.
For more on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, head to Newsweek Sports.
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