Rules

Tiebreaker Rules Explained

Q: What is goal difference?

Goal difference is calculated by subtracting goals conceded from goals scored. A positive goal difference means you scored more than you conceded.

Q: When do head-to-head results matter?

Head-to-head results are considered after overall goal difference and goals scored.

Q: Has drawing of lots ever been used?

Drawing of lots is extremely rare. Most ties are resolved by the earlier criteria.

Understand how teams are ranked when tied on points in World Cup group stages.

Quick Answer

When teams are tied on points, FIFA uses these tiebreakers in order: goal difference, goals scored, head-to-head results, fair play points, and finally drawing of lots. Goal difference is the most common deciding factor.

#1Points

#2Goal Difference

#3Goals Scored

#4Head-to-Head

#5Fair Play Points

#6Drawing of Lots

World Cup group stage tiebreaker criteria (in order of priority)

When two or more teams finish with the same number of points in the group stage, FIFA uses the following tiebreakers in order:

Tiebreaker Order

1. Goal Difference: Goals scored minus goals conceded across all group matches 2. Goals Scored: Total goals scored in all group matches 3. Points in head-to-head matches: Points earned in matches between tied teams 4. Goal difference in head-to-head matches 5. Goals scored in head-to-head matches 6. Fair Play points: Based on yellow and red cards received 7. Drawing of lots: Random selection by FIFA

Example

If Team A and Team B both have 6 points:
• Team A: +3 goal difference, 5 goals scored
• Team B: +2 goal difference, 4 goals scored
• Team A ranks higher due to better goal difference

Frequently Asked Questions

What is goal difference?

When do head-to-head results matter?

Has drawing of lots ever been used?