What happens in a tie at the end of regular time in the Rugby World Cup?

Rugby World Cup: what happens if there is a tie at the end of regulation time?

\n\nIn the world of rugby, a draw situation often takes the spectator by surprise. Even more so when it comes to a match as crucial as the World Cup. But what really happens when a tie occurs at the end of regulation time? We will discover this together.\n\n

Regulation Time in a Rugby Match

\n\nIn any rugby match, including during World Cup, the regulation time is 80 minutes. This time is divided into two 40-minute halves with a 10-minute break halfway through. Depending on the progress of the match, there are circumstances where additional time may be added by the referee to compensate for stoppages in play.\n\n

Tie at the end of regulation time

\n\nIf at the end of these 80 minutes, the two teams are tied, the procedure varies depending on the stakes of the match. In the group stage, the match is simply considered a draw and each team receives two points in the ranking.\n\n

For Knockout Matches

\n\nIn the knockout matches in Rugby World Cup, like the quarter-finals, semi-finals or final, a draw at the end of regulation time triggers a specific procedure.\n\nFirst, a 20-minute overtime period is played. This is divided into two 10-minute halves separated by a 5-minute break.\n\n

In case of New Equality

\n\nIf at the end of these overtime periods, the two teams are still tied, then a second overtime period known as “sudden death” is played. During this period, the first team to score points, whether it be a try, a drop or a penalty, is declared the winner.\n\nIf no one manages to score during this "sudden death" period, the decision is made by the number of successful penalties or, as a last resort, by a draw. \n\nAlthough this situation is rare, it is crucial for rugby fans to know these regulations which govern the operation of the Rugby World Cup, and which create all the suspense and intensity of each match. \n\nEven in case oftie at the end of regulation time, the show is far from over. Extra time and sudden death have provided some of the most memorable episodes in Rugby World Cup history. \n\n