One of the most common confusions in soccer: when are there penalties and when aren't there? The answer depends on which phase of the tournament the match is being played in.
In the Group Stage: NO Penalties
During the group stage, a match can end in a draw and that is a valid result. Teams simply earn 1 point each and continue in the competition. There is no extra time or penalty shootout. A draw is a perfectly normal result in this phase.
In Knockout Rounds: YES, Penalties (if tied)
From the Round of 32 onward (the first knockout round in the 2026 World Cup), if a match ends level after 90 minutes of regular time, extra time is played: two 15-minute halves. If the tie persists at the end of extra time, a penalty shootout follows. Each team takes 5 alternating penalties; if still tied, they proceed alternately one by one until one team misses and the other converts (sudden death).
⚽ Quick summary: Groups → draw = valid result. Knockouts → draw = extra time → if still tied → penalties.
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