The games that show the flaws in a 48-team World Cup
Summary
The World Cup has expanded from 32 to 48 teams, which changed the group stage and knockout round setup. Now, eight third-placed teams also qualify for the knockout stage, reducing the risk of elimination early but creating situations where teams might play for certain results to advance.Key Facts
- The World Cup increased from 32 to 48 teams starting this tournament.
- The group stage now has 12 groups of four teams each.
- The top two teams in each group qualify for the knockout stage.
- Additionally, the eight best third-placed teams also advance to ensure 32 teams in the knockout rounds.
- This format means teams can qualify with lower points, reducing early elimination risk.
- Some teams may play matches aiming for specific results, such as a draw, to secure advancement.
- Two matches coming up—Australia vs Paraguay and Austria vs Algeria—highlight this issue since four points likely guarantee progression.
- FIFA changed the format after issues in the 1982 World Cup involving matches played at different times leading to possible match-fixing.
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