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The expanded 48-team World Cup has reduced group stage jeopardy, as eight third-placed teams advance. Matches like Australia vs Paraguay and Austria vs Algeria could see teams play for draws, raising concerns about competitive integrity.
The 2026 World Cup reached 100 goals in just 33 games, the fastest since 1958. The Adidas 'Trionda' ball and expanded 48-team format are cited as possible reasons for the goal surge, with an average of 3.09 goals per game.
The 2026 World Cup features an expanded 48-team format with new tiebreaker rules. The top two from each of 12 groups advance, plus eight best third-placed teams. Head-to-head results now supersede goal difference, and a disciplinary score may decide ties.
