What are the group tiebreakers at the World Cup?
What is the first tiebreaker for qualification?
Naturally, it’s points won! But if two sides finish level in the group then goal difference is the all-important sum to keep an eye on. For the uninitiated, that’s simply total goals scored minus goals conceded across the three group stage games.
What other criteria are used?
If teams remain level on goal difference then it goes down to goals scored. It’s intended to benefit more attack-minded sides, thus making a 3-2 game more ‘valuable’, as such, compared to a 1-0.
Should that still not be enough to separate teams then it becomes head-to-head which is used: the direct results between the teams in question come into play, with points, then goal difference, then goals scored tallied up, in that order as necessary. Obviously if it’s between only two teams then it’s just the one result so the scoreline immediately either does (one team wins) or doesn’t (a draw) separate them.
Fair play points is the final “sporting” equation used, with teams alloted points for each booking or red card they receive in the group stage.
If there is somehow still no splitting teams involved, a thoroughly unsatisfying drawing of lots will settle the matter.
Recommended
How many sides go through from each group?
Half of the teams who qualify for the World Cup go through to the knockouts. With eight groups, that means the top two progress to the last 16.
Register for free to continue reading
Registration is a free and easy way to support our truly independent journalism
By registering, you will also enjoy limited access to Premium articles, exclusive newsletters, commenting, and virtual events with our leading journalists
{{#verifyErrors}} {{message}} {{/verifyErrors}} {{^verifyErrors}} {{message}} {{/verifyErrors}}
By clicking ‘Create my account’ you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use, Cookie policy and Privacy notice.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy policy and Terms of service apply.
Already have an account? sign in
By clicking ‘Register’ you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use, Cookie policy and Privacy notice.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy policy and Terms of service apply.
Register for free to continue reading
Registration is a free and easy way to support our truly independent journalism
By registering, you will also enjoy limited access to Premium articles, exclusive newsletters, commenting, and virtual events with our leading journalists
{{#verifyErrors}} {{message}} {{/verifyErrors}} {{^verifyErrors}} {{message}} {{/verifyErrors}}
By clicking ‘Create my account’ you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use, Cookie policy and Privacy notice.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy policy and Terms of service apply.
Already have an account? sign in
By clicking ‘Register’ you confirm that your data has been entered correctly and you have read and agree to our Terms of use, Cookie policy and Privacy notice.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy policy and Terms of service apply.
Source: Read Full Article