The expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup features a new 48-team format and, for the first time, a Round of 32 in the knockout stage. While the tournament structure has changed, FIFA’s extra time rules remain the same. If a knockout match is tied after 90 minutes, a winner must be determined before either team can advance.
Here’s everything fans need to know about the 2026 FIFA World Cup extra time rules.
When Is Extra Time Used at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Extra time is only used during the knockout rounds of the tournament. These rounds include:
- Round of 32
- Round of 16
- Quarterfinals
- Semifinals
- Third-Place Playoff
- Final
During the group stage, matches can finish in a draw after 90 minutes plus stoppage time. No extra time or penalty shootout is played during the group phase.
How Long Is Extra Time?
If a knockout match is tied after regulation, the game moves into extra time.
Extra time consists of:
- Two 15-minute halves
- A short break between the two periods
- Stoppage time added at the referee’s discretion if necessary
In total, teams can play up to 30 additional minutes before a winner is determined.
Is There a Golden Goal Rule?
No. FIFA no longer uses the Golden Goal or Silver Goal rules.
Even if one team scores early in extra time, both 15-minute periods are played in full unless the match is abandoned for extraordinary circumstances.
What Happens If the Match Is Still Tied After Extra Time?
If the score remains level after 120 minutes, the winner is decided by a penalty shootout.
The shootout follows FIFA’s standard procedure:
- Each team takes five penalty kicks.
- If the score is still tied after five kicks each, the shootout moves to sudden death.
- Sudden death continues until one team scores and the other misses in the same round.
The winning team advances to the next stage of the tournament.
How Many Substitutions Are Allowed?
Teams are permitted:
- Five substitutions during regulation time.
- One additional substitution if the match goes to extra time.
- An extra substitution opportunity during extra time, allowing managers more flexibility for tactical changes and player fatigue.
This rule helps teams manage players during the physically demanding knockout rounds.
Why Extra Time Matters
With the introduction of the Round of 32 in the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, more knockout matches than ever could require extra time and penalty shootouts. Every knockout game must produce a winner, making the final 30 minutes—and potentially penalties—some of the most dramatic moments of the tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2026 FIFA World Cup use extra time?
Yes. Every knockout-round match that is tied after 90 minutes proceeds to extra time.
How long is extra time?
Extra time consists of two 15-minute periods, for a total of 30 minutes, plus any added stoppage time.
Is there a Golden Goal in the 2026 World Cup?
No. FIFA abolished the Golden Goal rule. Teams always play the full 30 minutes of extra time.
What happens after extra time if the score is still tied?
The match is decided by a penalty shootout, beginning with five kicks per team and followed by sudden death if necessary.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup’s expanded format introduces more knockout matches, but FIFA’s method for deciding tied games remains unchanged. If a knockout match ends level after 90 minutes, teams will battle through two 15-minute extra-time periods before, if needed, a penalty shootout determines who advances. These high-pressure moments are expected to play a major role in deciding the next world champion.