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With 32 of 48 teams advancing to the knockout rounds, the path to the final is complex. England and Scotland could meet in the last 16, but Scotland's hopes as a best third-placed team are slim after a 3-0 loss to Brazil. Find out what each team needs to advance.
FIFA's decision to prioritize head-to-head over goal difference in group stage tie-breakers may reduce the drama of final-round matches, turning potential thrillers into dead rubbers. The rule change has drawn criticism for needlessly killing the excitement of the World Cup's group stage.
FIFA will use head-to-head records instead of goal difference as the primary tiebreaker for tied teams at the 2026 World Cup. The change, already used at the Club World Cup, could allow teams to secure group wins before matchday three.
