How do you determine in the group stage, who advances and who goes back home?
FIFA set the criteria as the following:
- Number of points (3 points for winners, 1 point for draw, 0 points for defeat)
- Goal Difference (Goals scored minus goals allowed)
- Goals Scored
- Fair Play Rules (Yellow and Red Cards deduct points)
For example, Spain topped their group despite being tied on points with Portugal. Spain scored more goals so that became the criteria that puts them at the top of the group to take first place. Iran did not have enough points and Morocco finish last, both teams eliminated.
If the top two teams finish tied on points, goals and difference, then the fair play rule is applied for the tie breaker. The team with the least yellow or red cards will take the top spot.
