World Cup 2026 has now reached the final stage of its group phase, which means that both matches in each of the 12 groups are scheduled to begin at the same time.

The decision to implement simultaneous kick-offs for the last round of group matches dates back to the 1982 World Cup and the infamous “Disgrace of Gijon”. The controversy arose during the match between West Germany and Austria, where both sides played out a result that ensured their progression while eliminating Algeria from the tournament.

At that time, Algeria had completed their final group game a day earlier and were in a position to qualify. However, West Germany and Austria entered their match knowing that a narrow win for the Germans would allow both European teams to advance on goal difference, at Algeria’s expense.

In that match, West Germany took an early lead in the 10th minute. From then on, both teams were content with the result, effectively ceasing to attack and simply playing out time, a move that angered Algerian fans and neutrals around the world.

In response to the controversy, FIFA changed the format for the 1986 World Cup so that all final group-stage matches would be played simultaneously. This adjustment made it significantly more difficult for teams to pre-arrange results since the outcome of the other game in the group would unfold at the same time and could influence qualification standings.

Interestingly, the format of the 2026 World Cup may once again influence how teams approach their matches. With the introduction of head-to-head records as the primary tiebreaker for teams level on points—replacing goal difference—some teams will enter their final fixtures with a clearer understanding of what they need to advance.

Adding another layer of irony, Algeria could find themselves in a situation similar to the one that once eliminated them. In Group J, with Argentina already confirmed as group winners and four points likely enough for teams finishing third to progress, both Algeria and Austria could go through with a draw in Kansas City. The same situation applies in Group D, where Australia and Paraguay will face off at the same time that the USA take on Turkey.

However, there may be a twist for Austria. Finishing second in Group J would set up a last-32 clash against Spain, one of the tournament favourites, while ending third could lead to a more favourable encounter against Belgium or Egypt in the knockout stage. This dynamic could influence how teams approach their final fixtures despite the simultaneous kick-offs designed to prevent match manipulation.