What to know about World Cup tiebreakers and how teams can advance to the knockout phase

The World Cup's expanded 48-team format introduces a new qualification pathway. Beyond the top two in each of the 12 groups, eight best third-placed teams will advance to a round of 32 knockout stage. For the first time, head-to-head results will be the primary tiebreaker, followed by goal difference and other criteria. This shift significantly impacts team strategies, with goal difference potentially proving crucial for survival.