How does the World Cup work?
The 2026 World Cup is the biggest one ever — 48 countries competing over about six weeks. It runs in two phases: a group stage where everyone plays guaranteed games, then a knockout bracket where every loss sends you home.
Phase 1: Group stage
The 48 teams are split into 12 groups of 4. Every team plays the other 3 teams in their group — so each team is guaranteed 3 games no matter what.
Win = 3 points · Draw (tie) = 1 point each · Loss = 0 points.
The 24 automatic qualifiers (2 × 12 groups) plus the 8 best third-place teams fill the 32-team bracket. Third-place teams are ranked by points, then goal difference, then goals scored.
What does “goal difference” mean?
Goals scored minus goals allowed. Win 3–1 and lose 0–2, your goal difference is +0 (3 − 1 − 2 = 0). Teams with equal points are separated by this number — so running up the score in a lopsided game actually matters.
Phase 2: Knockout rounds
32 teams. Single elimination. Lose and you're out. No second chances.
In the knockout rounds, ties don't stand. If the score is level after 90 minutes, the game goes to extra time — two additional 15-minute halves. Still tied? Penalty shootout.
Stoppage time vs. extra time — these are different things that Americans often confuse. Stoppage time (2–10 minutes) happens in every match. Extra time (30 minutes) only happens in knockout rounds when the score is tied. Full explanation →
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