Rules & Triggers
What happens if teams tie on all criteria?
Quick Answer
If teams are tied after all sporting criteria (points, GD, goals, head-to-head), FIFA uses Fair Play points (fewer yellow/red cards = better). If still tied, the final resort is drawing of lots - essentially a coin flip.
Detailed Explanation
The full tiebreaker order is: 1) Points, 2) Goal difference, 3) Goals scored, 4) Head-to-head points, 5) Head-to-head GD, 6) Head-to-head goals, 7) Fair play, 8) Drawing of lots. It's designed so sporting merit decides whenever possible.
📌Key Points
- 1Fair play points count cards
- 2Yellow card = -1, Red = -3
- 3Drawing of lots is absolute last resort
- 4Has never been used in World Cup knockout qualification
- 58 tiebreaker levels before random selection