How the 48 Team Format Works ⚽️
The expanded structure gives every team three group matches before the first knockout round. Thirty two teams advance from the group stage.
Group stage: The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four.
Automatic advancement: The top two teams in every group qualify for the Round of 32.
Third placed advancement: The eight strongest third placed teams also qualify.
Knockout rounds: The competition continues through the Round of 32, Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals and final.
Maximum matches: A finalist plays eight matches, compared with seven under the previous 32 team format.
The third placed qualification system keeps more teams in contention during the final group matches. Standings can depend on points, goal difference, goals scored and the published tie breaking procedure.
The expanded structure gives every team three group matches before the first knockout round. Thirty two teams advance from the group stage.
Group stage: The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four.
Automatic advancement: The top two teams in every group qualify for the Round of 32.
Third placed advancement: The eight strongest third placed teams also qualify.
Knockout rounds: The competition continues through the Round of 32, Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals and final.
Maximum matches: A finalist plays eight matches, compared with seven under the previous 32 team format.
The third placed qualification system keeps more teams in contention during the final group matches. Standings can depend on points, goal difference, goals scored and the published tie breaking procedure.