Historical
Has drawing of lots ever been used in the World Cup?
Quick Answer
No, drawing of lots has never been used to decide World Cup group qualification. The tiebreaker system is designed with 7 criteria before lots: points, GD, goals scored, head-to-head results, and fair play. It remains theoretical.
Detailed Explanation
While lots are technically the final tiebreaker, the multiple preceding criteria have always produced a winner. The closest call was Japan vs Senegal in 2018, decided by fair play. FIFA would likely add extra criteria before resorting to lots.
📌Key Points
- 1Never used in World Cup history
- 27 tiebreakers before lots
- 3Japan vs Senegal 2018 was closest
- 4Fair play saved from needing lots
- 5Theoretical last resort only