FIFA World Cup Rules & Rankings Explained
Understand how World Cup points are calculated, how ties are broken, and how match results affect qualification.
Understand World Cup Rules
Clear explanations for every rule, helping you truly understand the logic behind the matches.
Tournament Format
How 32 teams are grouped and advance to the final
Learn more โTiebreaker Rules
How teams are ranked when tied on points
Learn more โReading Standings
Understanding what each column means
Learn more โVAR Explained
When and how Video Assistant Referee intervenes
Learn more โMatch Predictor Tool
Predict match outcomes using our CSI-based probability calculator. Compare any two teams instantly.
Try Predictor โTop 5 Teams by CSI
View all rankings โWhy Understanding Rules Matters
- โKnow how goal difference affects rankings to predict qualification scenarios
- โUnderstand when VAR intervenes, no more confusion about referee decisions
- โMaster knockout rules, clearly understand extra time and penalty shootouts
24+
Detailed rule explanations
Data Tools
Validate your understanding of rules with data
Group Leaders
Full standings โNot sure how points are calculated? Read our standings guide
What is the CSI Strength Index?
Cup Strength Index (CSI) is our proprietary team strength rating system, considering historical performance, recent form, and World Cup experience to help you understand each team's true strength.
Learn how CSI is calculated โDaily World Cup Quiz
One question a day โ test your football knowledge!
World Cup 2026 Updates
Get rankings, predictions, and match alerts straight to your inbox