⚽ Mini World Cup Tournament Rules 

Qualifying stage: to decide on 16 countries

1. General Format

1.1 The qualifying stage runs over multiple matchdays over multiple months.

1.2 Each matchday will consist of 4 games, with each game lasting 25 minutes (no halftime).

1.3 Teams represent a country of their choice. The country name must be nominated before each match.

1.4 The competition is open to all players, with teams forming week-to-week or game-to-game.

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2. Team Rules

2.1 Each team must have a minimum of 4 players to participate.

2.2 If extra players are available, teams may have more, but try and keep competing team numbers equal.

2.3 Teams may change players between matches, but the country nomination counts for that game’s result.

2.4 A player may play for multiple countries across the tournament, but only one per match.

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3. Match Rules

3.1 Matches are 7-a-side maximum (ideally 4-a-side).

3.2 Kick-off, restarts, fouls follow standard WF rules.

3.3 If numbers are uneven, matches may be played 6v5, 5v4, or 4v4 as agreed.

3.4 The referee or match organiser’s decision is final.

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4. Points & Standings

4.1 Points are awarded as follows:

   •   Win = 3 points

   •   Draw = 1 point

   •   Loss = 0 points

4.2 Results are recorded on a league table, ranked by:

1. Total points

2. Goal difference

3. Goals scored

4. Head-to-head result

5. Coin toss (if still tied)

4.3 Countries accumulate points across the season.

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5. World Cup Knockouts Day

5.1 At the end of the league stage, the top 16 countries qualify for the World Cup knockouts, at a one day event.

5.2 This one day tournament is limited to 64 players. Teams  represent a qualifying country. Once knockout games begin, the team is locked to that country.

5.3 The knockout stage format is:

   •   Round of 16 (single elimination)

   •   Quarter-finals

   •   Semi-finals

   •   Final

Consolation bracket (“Plate Final”) keeps everyone involved.

Less players = less countries. ) additional players rotate, referee, or make teams of 5.

Knockouts 

Top 8 nations go to Quarterfinals, then Semis.

Balancing Rule: If one team has too few players on a given day, borrow a “guest player” from another squad (they still score for their own nation when they score.

Additional:

Draws go to penalties 

Use bibs or own gear for team colours.

6. Fair Play

6.1 Respect for referees, organisers, and fellow players is mandatory.

6.2 Aggressive behaviour, dissent, or unsafe play may result in suspension or disqualification.

6.3 The aim of the tournament is competitive but friendly football. Organisers reserve the right to adjust scheduling, format, or rules to ensure fair play and smooth running.