There will be 12 groups each with 4 teams in it at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 12 Teams that win their group will resolve YES and all other teams will resolve NO.

The ranking of teams in each group is determined by the points obtained in all group matches. If two or more teams are equal on points, the following criteria are used to determine the ranking:

a. Most points obtained in the group matches played between the teams concerned;

b. Superior goal difference in the group matches played between the teams concerned;

c. Most goals scored in the group matches played between the teams concerned;

If, after having applied criteria a to c, teams still had an equal ranking, criteria a to c are reapplied exclusively to the matches between the teams who are still level to determine their final rankings. If this procedure does not lead to a decision, criteria d to h apply.

d. Superior goal difference in all group matches;

e. Most goals scored in all group matches;

f. "Fair Play" score:

• Yellow card: −1 point;

• Indirect red card (second yellow card): −3 points;

• Direct red card: −4 points;

• Yellow card and direct red card: −5 points;

g. Better position in the most recent FIFA Men's World Ranking;

h. Better position in progressively older FIFA Men's World Rankings until teams can be separated.