The problem

In tournaments like 26 or 27 teams, the math forces uneven group sizes — some groups end up with 3 teams while others have 4. Teams in the 3-team groups only play 2 group-stage matches. If they lose out there, they leave after just 2 games.

What Direct Advance does

When group sizes are uneven, every team in the smaller groups qualifies automatically to the knockout bracket. No elimination in the small group, no play-in round — they go straight through.

This guarantees every team plays at least 3 matches, regardless of which group they landed in.

How qualifying works

• Smaller groups (3 teams) → all teams advance automatically

• Larger groups (4 teams) → top 2 advance as normal

• Best 3rd-place teams from the larger groups fill any remaining bracket slots

• Straight to the main bracket — no play-in, no byes

Example: 26 teams

7 groups (2 of 3, 5 of 4) → 16 qualify → R16 → QF → SF → Final

Example: 27 teams

7 groups (1 of 3, 6 of 4) → 16 qualify → R16 → QF → SF → Final

Where to find it

Scoring setup → look for the "MGG and Direct Advance" badge at the bottom of a knockout option card. Available for team counts 10, 11, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, and 27.