Sports News Report
Sport: SoccerCountry: SpainCategory: Scores & Results

World Cup games kick off simultaneously in final round

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 24, 2026, 3:01 PM

Last updated Jun 24, 2026

World Cup games kick off simultaneously in final round
Summary

The 2026 World Cup has reached the final round of group matches, with all games in each of the 12 groups kicking off at the same time. This format was implemented to prevent collusion similar to the controversial 1982 match known as the 'Disgrace of Gijon' between West Germany and Austria. The changes aim to increase competition and ensure fairness, particularly as new tie-breaking rules may influence strategies in these matches. In Group D, the USA faces Turkey, while Australia plays Paraguay concurrently, with teams navigating their standings for advancement.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
By the Numbers
  • •Final round of group matches begins today.
  • •Teams' strategies are not just about winning but also positioning.
  • •USA plays Turkey and Australia faces Paraguay simultaneously.
  • •New rules alter tie-breaking scenarios from prior tournaments.
  • •The 1982 match remains a critical reference for World Cup formats.
Latest Updates
  • 3:01 PMYahoo Sports — Why are World Cup games kicking off at the same time?
What they're saying
"

1982’s ‘Disgrace of Gijon’ continues to hang over the World Cup as the tournament enters the final round of group matches

Related Teams & Leagues
Soccer

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days