Knockout (single elimination)
In a knockout, the loser of every match is eliminated and the winner advances until one team remains. It is the fastest and most dramatic format — but half the field goes home after one game unless you add a consolante (consolation bracket).
How it works
The bracket size is a power of two (8, 16, 32…); missing teams become byes in round 1.
Winners advance; each round halves the field until the final.
A consolante gives first-round losers a bracket of their own.
Seeding keeps the strongest teams apart until the late rounds.
Why choose it
- Very fast: 32 teams need only 5 rounds.
- Every match is do-or-die — maximum tension.
- Easy for spectators to follow on a bracket.
Best for
Finals stages, small evening events, or any tournament where time is short. For all-day events, pair it with poules or a Swiss stage so everyone plays more than one game.
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