Golden Goal is a rule where the first goal scored during extra time immediately ends the match and determines the winner.

The game stops as soon as a goal is scored.

How it works

• Applies only during extra time, not regular time

• First team to score wins instantly

• No continuation after the goal

Example

• Match tied after 90 minutes

• Extra time starts

• Team A scores in the 97th minute
  → Match ends immediately, Team A wins

Key characteristics

• High-impact, sudden-death format

• Increases volatility in betting markets

• Mostly used in older tournaments and special rulesets

Important note
Golden Goal is now largely replaced by full extra time or penalty shootouts, but still appears in historical bets and special markets.