One of the most unexpected side effects of the expanded 48-team World Cup format—where 32 of those sides advance to the Round of 16—has been the wave of strategic draws. Before the final matchday, several teams shared a mutual interest in settling for a point, knowing both would advance. And so far, they’ve all taken the path of least resistance.
Group F delivered a perfect example when Japan and Sweden faced off. After a cautious opening half, the game exploded into life after the break (Maeda 56’, Elanga 62’), but the 1-1 finish suited both sides perfectly.
Group B offered an even clearer case of tactical stalemate, with Australia and Paraguay playing out a forgettable 0-0. With four points apiece, both nations booked their spots in the next round without breaking a sweat.
Algeria vs Austria: a result that leaves everyone satisfied
As the final group-stage fixtures kicked off, all eyes turned to the Algeria vs Austria clash in Group J. A draw here would send both teams through, but with a twist: finishing third might actually be preferable to second. That way, Algeria could avoid Spain in the Round of 16 and instead face Belgium or Switzerland. Austria, however, cannot risk a loss—three points would put them in serious danger of elimination. A draw, therefore, appears to be the only sensible outcome for both.
The Ghana vs Croatia encounter in Group L presented a different dynamic. Ghana had already secured their passage with four points, while Croatia needed at least a point to feel safe. Their potential opponents in the next round would likely be Colombia or Portugal, depending on how earlier games unfolded. For Croatia, a draw would mean a clearer path forward.
snapshot of the best third-place 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 to play
8 – South Korea (3 points, -1)
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9 – Algeria (3 points, -2) match to play
10 – Scotland (3 points, -3)
11 – Uruguay (2 points, -1) eliminated
12 – DR Congo (1 point, -2) match to play
Teams in italics have already secured qualification. Ranking criteria: points, goal difference, goals scored, fair-play record, pre-tournament FIFA ranking.