Groups and knockouts are two connected phases. Clubs first earn positions in group tables; those positions fill places in the bracket.

Why Organisers Use It

The format provides guaranteed group games before a clear route to a final.

Start With the Number of Clubs

Eight clubs can form two groups of four: 12 group matches, two semi-finals and one final, for 15 matches total. Twelve clubs in three groups can require cross-group runner-up rules to produce a clean bracket.

Write Tiebreak Rules First

  1. Points.
  2. Goal difference.
  3. Goals scored.
  4. Head-to-head or another stated criterion.
  5. A final competition-specific method.

Cross the Groups

  • Semi-final 1: 1st Group A v 2nd Group B.
  • Semi-final 2: 1st Group B v 2nd Group A.

Store Qualifier Relationships

Create bracket places as qualifier references. Manual re-entry risks the wrong club, a stale public bracket and extra work at the busiest time.

Wait Until the Position Is Decided

A club leading an unfinished group is not necessarily qualified. Progression should wait until the configured rules determine the position.

Protect Transition Time

Leave enough time to confirm the last result, settle standings and move clubs before the first knockout match.