Fixing match-fixing: Optimal schedules to promote competitiveness

In the last round of FIFA World Cup group stage, games for which outcome does not affect selection qualified teams are played with little enthusiasm. Furthermore, a team that has already may take into account other factors, such as opponents it will face in next stage competition so that, depending on results groups and scheduling winning game be its best interest. Even more critically, there situations simple draw qualify both competition. Any situation two opposing do play competitively is detrimental to sport, and, above all, can lead collusion match-fixing opportunities. We here develop relatively general method evaluating competitiveness apply current format stage. then propose changes order increase stakes making exciting watch at same time, reducing any appeal evaluate “groups 3” introduced 2026 edition well similar one Euro UEFA Cup.