World Cup 2026 Tactics: Why Fullbacks Keep Drifting Inside

The inverted fullback — a defender who steps into midfield in possession — is the signature tactic of World Cup 2026

48 teams, 12 groups, top two plus eight best third-placed sides reach a new Round of 32

Mexico opened the tournament beating South Africa 2-0 in a game with a record three red cards

The expanded format rewards control and clean sheets over all-out attack, nudging coaches toward cautious build-up

Indian fans face mostly late-night and early-morning IST kickoffs across US, Mexico and Canada venues