The 2026 World Cup begins this Thursday (11) with the opening game between Mexico and South Africa, at the Azteca Stadium. With 48 teams and an unprecedented format, the tournament raises common questions about draws: what happens when a match ends in a draw?
In the group stage, FIFA regulations are clear. After 90 minutes plus stoppage time, the score remains tied. There is no extra time or penalty shootout at this stage. Each team gets one point, while victory is worth three.
Brazil, which is playing in its 23rd World Cup, Lionel Messi’s Argentina and other favorites will need to score points efficiently. At the end of the first phase, the best two from each of the 12 groups advance directly to the round of 32 stage — a new feature of the expanded tournament. The eight best third-placed teams also move on.
Tiebreaker criteria in the group stage
When two or more teams end up tied on points, FIFA applies a sequence of criteria. First, the results of direct confrontations between them: points, goal difference and number of goals scored in these games.
If the tie still persists, the overall goal difference, the total number of goals scored in all group games, fair play (yellow and red cards) and, finally, the FIFA ranking are valid. These details can define who advances or is left out.
Extra time and penalties in the knockout stage
From the round of 16 onwards (phase of 32), there cannot be a draw. If the score is equal after 90 minutes and stoppage time, the teams go to extra time of 30 minutes, divided into two halves of 15, with stoppage time if necessary.
If the score is zero or the tie persists, the decision will go to penalties. Each team takes five kickoffs with different players. If it remains tied, sudden death occurs: one alternate charge at a time until one team scores and the other makes a mistake.
Why rules matter in the new format
With more teams and groups, the risk of draws increases and the classification can be decided in detail. Teams like Spain, with Lamine Yamal making his debut, or Jude Bellingham’s England, will need to manage the points well in the first phase to avoid surprises in the tiebreaker criteria.
Argentina is looking for its second consecutive championship, while Brazil is trying to return to the top. Understanding these rules helps fans follow each game more clearly.