As the world’s biggest soccer event, the World Cup brings millions of new eyes to the game. Naturally, not all are familiar with the sport’s terminology—what exactly is a “false nine,” anyway?—or even the rules.
That confusion can lead to a common refrain for the newly initiated: “Wait, there are ties?”
Though unthinkable in most other sports, yes, there are actually ties in soccer. But when teams reach the end of play, things operate a little differently at the World Cup. Here’s how it works.
During group stage play, games can end in a draw after 90 minutes (plus stoppage time).