2026 World Cup showcases extra‑time tactics and dramatic penalty shootouts

The tournament’s Brazil‑Japan clash highlighted FIFA’s extra‑time and penalty‑shootout procedures, detailing the five‑substitution rule, seventh substitution in extra time, and the five‑kick minimum before sudden‑death rounds. Analysts noted how Brazil’s attacking style and Japan’s disciplined endurance could be affected by the added minutes.

Matchday 23 delivered further drama: Cape Verde pushed defending champions Argentina to extra time before losing 3‑2, with Sidny Lopes Cabral’s striking equaliser drawing global attention. Egypt advanced past Australia via a penalty shootout after a 1‑1 draw, while Colombia edged Ghana 1‑0 to secure a last‑16 berth. Off the pitch, safety concerns prompted discussions about rescheduling England’s game against Mexico at the Azteca, reflecting logistical challenges of hosting the event.