Orlando Gill shines as Paraguay's hero in World Cup penalty shootout

BBC Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 30, 2026, 11:28 AM

Last updated Jun 30, 2026

Orlando Gill shines as Paraguay's hero in World Cup penalty shootout

Summary

Orlando Gill emerged as Paraguay's World Cup hero in a penalty shootout against Germany, saving two spot-kicks to advance his team to the last 16. Once in football obscurity, Gill had to sell his kit after his son was born prematurely and the family faced financial struggles. Over the past few years, he secured a position in the Argentine league and became Paraguay's first-choice goalkeeper. Gill dedicated his player of the match award to his nephew, who is currently in the hospital.

Source Links

BBC Football

Key Details

•Orlando Gill saved two penalties in the shootout against Germany
•Paraguay reached the knockout stage for the second time in World Cup history
•Gill sold his football kit to support his family after his son's premature birth
•He became the first-choice goalkeeper after moving to San Lorenzo
•Gill dedicated his award to his hospitalized nephew

Latest Updates

11:28 AMBBC Football — The Paraguay hero who sold his kit when his son was born

What they're saying

"
Orlando Gill has become Paraguay's World Cup hero but was in football obscurity 18 months ago and had to sell his kit to support his family after the premature birth of his son.
— BBC Football

Related Teams & Leagues

Soccer