AA Tournament Rules
World Cup–style format with knockout rounds
The tournament follows a World Cup–style format, with a few exceptions in age groups that do not have enough teams.
Group Play
- Teams are placed into groups of four (when possible).
- Each team plays every other team in its group.
- Points are awarded as follows:
- Win: 3 points
- Tie: 1 point
- Loss: 0 points
The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout round (quarterfinals or semifinals, depending on the number of teams).
Reporting Scores
It is critical that the winning team reports the score promptly, as standings are determined by scores.
Go to: NUCS Website → Coaches → AA Game Day if you do not know how to enter scores
Go to: NUCS Website → Coaches → AA Game Day if you do not know how to enter scores
Overtime Rules
- Group Play: No overtime. Games may end in a tie.
- Quarterfinals & Semifinals: A winner must be determined.
- Two 5-minute overtime periods will be played.
- If still tied, a penalty shootout will be taken in accordance with FIFA rules.
Tiebreakers
If teams are tied on points at the end of group play, the following tiebreakers are applied in order:
- Head-to-head result
- Goal differential (goals scored minus goals allowed), max +4 per game
- Fewest goals allowed
- Most goals scored (max 10 per game)
- Shutout wins (forfeits do not count)
- Total wins
- Penalty kicks
Smaller Age Groups
In some older age groups with fewer teams, the tournament may skip group play and go directly to quarterfinals or semifinals.
Rosters & Player Verification
Referees will check player passes, photos, and rosters.
If anything is incorrect, you must email Nathan and me immediately so it can be fixed before games are played.
If anything is incorrect, you must email Nathan and me immediately so it can be fixed before games are played.