Tied after 90?
First, check the match stage.
World Cup 2026
What happens if a World Cup match is tied?
The answer depends on the stage. Group-stage matches can end tied. Knockout matches must produce a winner, so they can go to extra time and then penalties.
Group stage
The match can end as a draw.
Knockout stage
The match goes to extra time.
Still tied?
A penalty shootout decides who advances.
FAQ
Common beginner questions
Can a World Cup group-stage match end tied?
Yes. A World Cup group-stage match can end as a draw after stoppage time.
What happens in a knockout match if it is tied?
A tied knockout match goes to extra time. If it is still tied after extra time, it goes to a penalty shootout.
When does a penalty shootout happen?
A penalty shootout happens when a match must have a winner and is still tied after extra time.