It seems to be one of the consequences of this hybrid 48-team World Cup format, where 32 teams advance to the round of 16. Several teams, heading into the final matchday, had a shared interest in a draw, as that result would qualify both. And so far, every such match has ended in a draw.
That was the case in Group F, where Japan faced Sweden. After a tight first half, the game opened up after the break (Maeda 56′, Elanga 62′), but ultimately finished 1-1, a result that suited both sides.
The scenario was even more blatant in Group B, where Australia and Paraguay played out a dull but predictable 0-0 draw. The outcome? Both nations advanced with four points.
Algeria versus Austria: a foregone conclusion?
With the final round of group matches approaching, all eyes are on Group J’s Algeria-Austria clash and Group L’s Ghana-Croatia encounter. For Algeria and Austria, a draw secures qualification for both, though with a twist: finishing third might be preferable to second, as it could mean facing Belgium or Switzerland rather than Spain. However, Austria cannot afford to lose, as three points could leave them vulnerable to elimination. A draw, therefore, seems the most convenient outcome for both teams.
In Group L, the situation is slightly different. Ghana, with four points, are already guaranteed to progress. Croatia, on the other hand, need at least a draw. Depending on the result of the earlier match in the group, the potential opponent for the second-placed team would likely be Colombia or Portugal. Is there a preference?
Standings of the best third-placed teams:
1 – Sweden (4 points, goal difference 0)
2 – Ecuador (4 points, 0)
3 – Bosnia (4 points, -1)
4 – Paraguay (4 points, -2)
5 – Senegal (3 points, +2)
6 – Iran (3 points, 0)
7 – Croatia (3 points, -1) One match still to play
8 – South Korea (3 points, -1)
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9 – Algeria (3 points, -2) One match still to play
10 – Scotland (3 points, -3)
11 – Uruguay (2 points, -1) ELIMINATED
12 – DR Congo (1 point, -2) One match still to play
Teams in italics have secured qualification. Tie-breakers: points, goal difference, goals scored, fair play conduct, FIFA ranking before the World Cup.
