As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, kicking off on Thursday, fans are eager to learn about the tournament's new format, featuring 48 teams for the first time. The final match is scheduled for July 19.

In standard matches, soccer consists of two 45-minute halves, totaling 90 minutes of play. However, in the knockout rounds of the World Cup, the approach to extra time shifts significantly. During the group stage, which involves 12 groups of four teams each, games can end in a win, loss, or draw after regulation time. Here’s how points are awarded:

• 3 points for a win
• 1 point for a draw
• 0 points for a loss

Importantly, there is no overtime during the group stage.

Once the knockout rounds commence, extra time becomes a possibility. This includes matches from the round of 32, round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the World Cup final. If teams are tied after 90 minutes, the game proceeds to extra time, which consists of:

• Two 15-minute halves (maximum of 30 minutes total)

Unlike previous tournaments, the Golden Goal rule has been abolished, meaning that the full 30 minutes will always be played regardless of goals scored. Each team is also allowed one extra substitution during this period.

If teams remain tied after extra time, a penalty shootout will determine the winner, a dramatic conclusion akin to the 2022 final where Argentina triumphed over France.