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The FIFA World Cup is the most celebrated sporting event in the world, drawing millions of fans every four years. To fully enjoy the tournament, it helps to understand the basic rules of play and know the top teams to keep an eye on. This guide will give you a quick overview of how the competition works and which nations are likely to shine.
Each match is played over 90 minutes, split into two halves of 45 minutes each.
If a knockout match ends in a draw, it goes into extra time (two 15-minute halves) and, if needed, a penalty shootout.
Each team fields 11 players, including the goalkeeper.
A team must have at least 7 players to continue the match.
Teams are allowed up to five substitutions during regulation time, with an extra one if the game goes into extra time.
A player is offside if they are closer to the opponent’s goal than both the ball and the second-last defender at the moment the ball is played to them.
The World Cup begins with a group stage: 32 (or 48 from 2026 onward) teams are divided into groups.
Each team plays three matches in the group stage, earning:
3 points for a win
1 point for a draw
0 points for a loss
The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage, which is single elimination.
With five World Cup titles, Brazil is always among the favorites. Known for attacking flair and producing world-class talent, they’re a must-watch side.
Fresh off recent international success, Argentina combines experience with young stars, making them one of the strongest contenders.
The 2018 World Cup winners boast depth across all positions. Their mix of youth and experience makes them a dangerous force.
After a transitional phase, Germany is rebuilding strongly. With a tradition of consistent performances, they remain a serious challenger.
Known for their possession-based style, Spain’s new generation is bringing fresh energy and creativity to the squad.
With a golden generation of young players, England has the potential to go deep in the tournament, backed by their passionate fan base.
Teams like Portugal, Netherlands, and rising nations such as Croatia or Senegal often spring surprises, making them exciting to follow.
Understanding the World Cup basic rules helps fans enjoy the action without confusion, while knowing the teams to watch adds excitement to the journey. As the world unites for football’s biggest spectacle, expect thrilling matches, unforgettable goals, and moments that will be remembered for generations.
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