The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, with 48 nations competing in the group stage. The group stage consists of 12 groups, with each team playing the other three teams in its group. Teams will receive one point for a draw and three points for a win, with the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-place teams advancing to the round of 32.

Extra Time and Stoppage Time

Matches during the group stage can end in a draw, with both teams receiving one point in the standings. If the score is tied at the end of the 90 minutes, the match will end in a draw, and no extra time will be played in the group stage. However, stoppage time will be added to cover delays that occurred during the half, such as injuries or substitutions.

The head referee will keep track of the delays and add the corresponding stoppage time at the end of each half. This is different from extra time, which will be featured starting with the round of 32 and all subsequent knockout rounds.

Original reporting: All Sports Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.