In the World Cup group stage a draw is a perfectly normal result — both teams take a point. But once the knockout stage begins, every match must produce a winner. So what happens when two teams are level after 90 minutes? Here's exactly how the 2026 World Cup decides a tied knockout tie.

Step 1: Extra time (30 minutes)

If the score is level at the end of normal time, the match goes straight to extra time: two periods of 15 minutes each, played in full (there is no "golden goal" — both halves are always completed). Teams change ends between the two periods, and an additional substitution is permitted beyond the normal allocation.

Step 2: Penalty shootout

If the teams are still level after extra time, the tie is settled by a penalty shootout. The basics:

• Each team takes five penalties, alternating, taken by five different players.
• The team with more goals after five kicks wins. If one team can no longer be caught, the shootout ends early.
• If it's still level after five each, it goes to sudden death: one kick each per round until one team scores and the other misses.
• Every available outfield player and goalkeeper must take a kick before anyone can take a second.

Is there away goals or a replay?

No. The away-goals rule has never applied at the World Cup, and there are no replays. Knockout ties are decided on the day, by extra time and penalties if needed.

Why it matters in 2026

With the expanded 48-team field, a finalist now plays five knockout rounds — five potential shootouts standing between a team and the trophy. Penalty drama has decided multiple World Cup finals, so understanding the rules makes the tension all the more gripping. For the full bracket and route to the final, read our World Cup 2026 knockout stage explained.

Catch every shootout and extra-time winner in our World Cup 2026 highlights, and see the full story of how the tournament ended in our 2026 World Cup results and award winners recap.

These rules are set out in the IFAB Laws of the Game, football's official rulebook.

FAQ

Can a team make substitutions before a penalty shootout?

Yes, but only if they have substitutions remaining and only before the first kick is taken — a team can bring on a fresh goalkeeper or a specialist penalty-taker up to that point, but not once the shootout is underway.

What happens if a World Cup 2026 knockout match is level after 90 minutes?

It goes to 30 minutes of extra time — two 15-minute halves played in full — and then a penalty shootout if still level.

How does a World Cup penalty shootout work?

Each team takes five penalties, alternating, taken by five different players. If still level it goes to sudden death: one kick each per round until one scores and the other misses.

Does the away-goals rule apply at the World Cup?

No. The away-goals rule has never applied at the World Cup, and there are no replays — ties are decided on the day.