Yes, extra time will be played during the knockout stage of the World Cup  FIFA 2026 if a match ends in a draw after the regular 90 minutes. This long-standing rule remains in place to ensure that every match in the elimination rounds produces a winner.

The process is straightforward. If the score is level at full time, teams will play an additional 30 minutes of extra time, divided into two 15-minute halves. Should the tie remain unresolved after extra time, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout — one of the most dramatic moments in football.

This format will apply to all knockout rounds, starting from the Round of 32 — newly introduced in the expanded tournament — all the way to the final. In these stages, draws are not an option, and every game must produce a decisive outcome.

It is important to note that this rule does not apply during the group stage. Matches that end in a draw during that phase will remain tied, with each team earning one point, as per the traditional format.

For the 2026 edition, FIFA has also introduced additional adjustments to improve game flow. One key change is the allowance of a sixth substitution during extra time, regardless of whether a team has already used its five regular substitutions.

Furthermore, stricter time-management rules will be enforced, including limits on restarts and on how quickly substituted players must leave the field.

In short, the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup will maintain its classic structure: if there’s a draw, there will be extra time — and if needed, penalties to decide who moves on.

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