The games that show the flaws in a 48 team World Cup

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has brought more nations, more matches, and more global excitement than ever before. But as the expanded 48-team format reaches the final round of group games, one major concern has become impossible to ignore: some teams may benefit from simply playing for a draw.

Two final group-stage matches have created debate because both teams involved could qualify if the result stays level. That situation has raised fresh questions about fairness, competitiveness, and whether the new format has created a problem FIFA must address in future tournaments.

Why the New Format Creates Complicated Scenarios

With 48 teams involved, the World Cup has become bigger and more inclusive. More countries now have the chance to experience football’s biggest stage, and that has brought new stories, new fans, and historic moments.

However, a larger tournament also means more complicated qualification calculations. Teams are not only fighting to finish first or second in their groups, but some third-placed teams can also progress depending on points, goal difference, and results elsewhere.

That creates situations where teams may know before kick-off that a draw is enough for both sides.

The Problem with “Convenient Draws”

Football is built on competition. Fans expect every team to chase victory, especially at a World Cup. But when the format makes a draw beneficial for both teams, the motivation to attack can become weaker.

This does not mean players will deliberately avoid trying. Professional footballers want to win, and national pride matters. But tactically, managers may become more cautious if they know a draw protects their tournament hopes.

That can lead to slower matches, fewer risks, and a feeling that the final group games are being shaped more by mathematics than by sporting ambition.

Fans Want Drama, Not Calculations

The final round of group matches should be one of the most exciting parts of the tournament. Every goal should change the standings, and every team should feel pressure to produce a result.

But when two teams can qualify together with a draw, the tension becomes different. Instead of asking who can win, fans start asking whether both sides will settle for the safest option.

For neutral viewers, that can damage the spectacle. A World Cup match should feel like a battle for victory, not a careful negotiation with the table.

Why Smaller Nations Still Benefit

Despite the criticism, the expanded format has also created positives. More nations have been able to compete against elite teams, and several underdogs have produced memorable performances.

For countries that rarely qualify, the 48-team World Cup provides valuable exposure, experience, and inspiration for future generations. Supporters from more parts of the world feel represented, which strengthens football’s global identity.

The problem is not necessarily expansion itself, but how the qualification system manages the final group-stage matches.

Could FIFA Change the Format?

If these concerns continue, FIFA may face pressure to review the structure of future tournaments. One possible solution would be changing how third-placed teams qualify. Another could be adjusting group sizes or introducing rules that reduce the chance of mutually beneficial draws.

There is no perfect format. Every tournament system has strengths and weaknesses. But when a format creates matches where both teams can advance without winning, criticism is inevitable.

Competitive Integrity Matters

The World Cup is football’s biggest competition, and every match should feel meaningful. Competitive integrity is essential because fans, players, coaches, and nations all need to believe the tournament is fair.

If teams appear to benefit from avoiding risks, even legally, the reputation of the competition can suffer. FIFA will want to ensure that future editions keep the drama high without encouraging overly cautious final group games.

Final Thoughts

The 48-team World Cup has delivered excitement, diversity, and new opportunities. But the final round of group games has also exposed flaws in the expanded format.

When two teams can qualify by simply playing out a draw, the tournament risks losing some of its competitive edge. The World Cup should reward ambition, courage, and victory — not just safe calculations.

As the competition continues, fans will hope the teams involved choose to play with intensity and ambition. But whatever happens, these matches may become an important lesson for FIFA as it plans the future of football’s biggest stage.