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How World Cup Knockout Ties Are Settled

The rules require a full 30 minutes of extra time and structured penalties, shaping how teams must manage fatigue and substitutions.

Overview

  • If a knockout match is tied after 90 minutes, play continues for a full 30 minutes of extra time divided into two 15-minute halves and the game does not end on a sudden goal.
  • Each team is allowed one additional substitution for use during extra time and there are no scheduled hydration breaks in that period.
  • If the score remains level after extra time the match goes to a penalty shootout of five kicks per side, with sudden-death rounds added if those five do not produce a winner.
  • Only players who are on the field at the end of extra time may take penalty kicks, and teams must have every on-field player take a kick before any player takes a second attempt.
  • The format reflects FIFA’s post-2002 move away from the golden-goal rule and forces coaches to plan substitutions and player fitness for the higher likelihood of extra-time matches.