In this unusual edition of the World Cup with 48 teams and an expanded format, several squads entered the final matchday with a shared objective: avoiding defeat. The logic was simple—since both teams would advance with a draw, why risk a loss? This strategy played out dramatically in Group F, where Japan and Sweden battled to a 1-1 tie that suited both sides.
Nowhere was this trend more evident than in Group B, where Australia and Paraguay played out a goalless stalemate. With four points each, both nations punched their tickets to the next round without breaking a sweat.
Algeria vs Austria: a calculated stalemate
The final matchday of the group stage saw Algeria face Austria in a clash where neither side could afford to lose. For Algeria, a draw would secure their passage, but finishing third in the group would mean a tougher Round of 16 opponent—likely Belgium or Switzerland. Austria, meanwhile, needed at least a point to avoid elimination. With three points already in the books, a loss would leave them vulnerable. The result? A tactical 0-0 draw that benefited both teams.
Elsewhere, Ghana and Croatia faced a different dynamic. The Ghanaian side had already clinched their spot with four points, while Croatia needed at least a draw to advance. Their potential Round of 16 opponents? Colombia or Portugal, depending on other results. The Croatians would have had clear preferences.
Standings of the best third-placed teams
1 – Sweden (4 points, goal difference 0)
2 – Ecuador (4 points, 0)
3 – Bosnia (4 points, -1)
4 – Paraguay (4 points, -2)
5 – Senegal (3 points, +2)
6 – Iran (3 points, 0)
7 – Croatia (3 points, -1) Match pending
8 – South Korea (3 points, -1)
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9 – Algeria (3 points, -2) Match pending
10 – Scotland (3 points, -3)
11 – Uruguay (2 points, -1) Eliminated
12 – DR Congo (1 point, -2) Match pending
Teams in italics have secured qualification. Ranking is based on: points, goal difference, goals scored, fair-play record, and FIFA World Ranking prior to the tournament.
