FIFA World Cup Pool Rules

In a typical FIFA World Cup Pool, players predict match outcomes throughout the tournament and earn points for correct picks. League managers may customize certain settings, but the following rules reflect common conventions for this type of pool.

1. Each player makes picks for FIFA World Cup matches included in the pool. In most pools, players choose the winning team for each match. Some leagues may also allow players to pick a draw during the group stage.
2. For group stage matches, if draw picks are enabled by the manager, a player may select either Team A, Team B, or Draw. If draw picks are not enabled, the player must choose one team to win.
3. For knockout stage matches, players must select the team that will advance. Since knockout matches cannot end in a final draw, picks are based on the winner after regulation, extra time, or penalty kicks, depending on league settings.
4. Players receive points for each correct pick. The default scoring in many World Cup pools increases by round, so later matches are worth more. A common scoring format is:
   Group Stage: 1 point
   Round of 16: 2 points
   Quarterfinals: 3 points
   Semifinals: 4 points
   Final: 5 points
5. All picks must be entered before the deadline set by the league manager. In most pools, each match locks individually at its scheduled start time. Some leagues may instead lock an entire round at once.
6. After picks are submitted, a player may edit them only if the league deadline has not passed and the relevant match has not started. Once a match begins, that pick becomes locked.
7. The player with the most total points at the end of the tournament is the winner. Final standings are determined after the championship match is complete and all tie-breakers are applied.

Tie-Breakers (Default, order is configurable by manager)

Final Standings, Total Points
1) Best tie-breaker on the final match
2) Most correct picks in later knockout rounds
3) Best overall winning percentage
4) Closest prediction of total goals or final score, if used by the league

Common Optional Rules

League managers may optionally enable features such as confidence points, exact score bonuses, upset bonuses, hidden picks, or draw selection during the group stage. These options vary by league and should be reviewed on the league's details or settings page.