Group stage + knockout (poules)
Teams are split into groups (poules) that each play a mini round robin; the best of each group advance to a knockout bracket. The format balances fairness — several guaranteed group games — with the drama of a final bracket.
How it works
Groups of 3–5 teams play a round robin within the group.
Group ranking: wins, then head-to-head, then points difference.
A fixed number of teams per group (typically the top 1 or 2) qualify.
Qualifiers are drawn into a knockout bracket, avoiding early same-group rematches.
Why choose it
- Guaranteed multiple matches for every team.
- Group play rewards consistency; the bracket rewards nerve.
- Scales well from 12 to 100+ teams.
Best for
Full-day open tournaments with a wide range of team strengths — the most common format for big amateur events.
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