The 2022 World Cup has already been full of drama and unpredictable moments throughout the group stage. After all, tournament contenders Belgium, Germany and Uruguay have been eliminated from the competition. Underdogs like South Korea, Japan and Morocco have also qualified in exciting fashion for the knockout round.
One of the most exciting aspects of the World Cup is the last round of group stage matches. While the first games of the tournament are spaced so that viewers can watch all the games, the final matches of each group are played at the same time. This is done to ensure that all teams play to the best of their ability and do not rig games.
‘Dishonra de Gijón’ changed the rules
The rule of playing these games at the same time was established in 1986. It was implemented after a refereed match such as the “Gijón Dishonor” at the 1982 World Cup. West Germany beat Austria 1-0 in the game, but both teams qualified for the next stage. The match was the last to be played in the group and both teams knew exactly what was needed to advance.
West Germany quickly went up 1-0 in the match and then both teams finished the match in mediocre fashion. FIFA claimed that neither team violated the laws, but it rearranged the game schedules for the following World Cup.
No more simultaneous World Cup matches, other changes
It has been rumored that FIFA is considering the idea of switching to three-team groups for the 2026 World Cup. This will most likely mean the end of simultaneous group stage play. The move would open the door to defensive football and possibly match manipulation.
In 2022, the simul matches at the World Cup provided great drama on the final day of the group stage.
The next edition of the World Cup would also see 48 teams involved instead of 32. Under the new plan, FIFA would place three teams in 16 different groups, as opposed to the current format of eight groups of four teams.
Along with the disappointing group stage shakeup, FIFA could also include penalty shootouts for group stage ties. This would potentially give the shootout winners an extra point in their pool.
Soccer fans, however, will be hoping the sport’s governing body has a change of heart on the decisions. The simultaneous games of the final group stage are chaotic and fascinating.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Sportimage
