Comparisons & Analysis
What's the difference between group stage and knockout stage?
Quick Answer
Group stage: 4 teams play each other once (3 matches each), top 2 advance; draws are allowed. Knockout stage: single elimination, must have a winner; extra time and penalties if tied after 90 minutes.
Detailed Explanation
The group stage is a round-robin format where all teams in a group play each other. The knockout stage is sudden death - lose once and you're eliminated. This creates different tactical approaches in each stage.
📌Key Points
- 1Group: 3 matches, points accumulate
- 2Knockout: 1 match, winner advances
- 3Group: draws give 1 point each
- 4Knockout: no draws (extra time/penalties)
- 5Group: multiple chances; Knockout: none