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Tie-breakers explained

A player striking the ball towards goal with a scoreboard showing 2–1 in the background
One goal can change the whole group.

Sooner or later it happens: two teams finish with the same number of points. Before the tournament starts, everyone should know how ties are broken – it avoids arguments at the end of a long day.

The order Cup Day uses

  1. Points – 3 for a win and 1 for a draw by default (you can change this).
  2. Goal difference – goals scored minus goals conceded.
  3. Goals scored – rewards teams that attack.
  4. Head-to-head – the results between the tied teams only.
  5. If teams are still level, decide with a coin toss or a quick penalty shoot-out.

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Tips for organisers

  • Write the tie-breakers on the team sheet or say them at the captains’ meeting.
  • Keep scores honest: one person enters every result.
  • For very short games, many organisers prefer head-to-head first. Whatever you choose, agree on it in advance.