Draft Strategy & Wildcards
The draft is where runs are won or lost. Smart picks and wildcard timing separate consistent World Cup winners from early exits.
Three wildcards — three options
Each run grants three rerolls. Skip the entire team, change the country (same World Cup year), or change the year (same nation). Changing France 1994 to another 1994 squad is often smarter than a full skip.
When to use wildcards
Save at least one for the late draft when weak teams are more likely. Skip immediately if a roll offers no player rated 80+ in Classic mode.
Position priority
Goalkeeper and centre-back slots are hardest to fill with elite ratings. When a top nation appears early, secure your GK and defensive line first — then chase forwards.
Squad average target
Aim for a team average above 87 to compete in knockout stages. Elite runs with Pelé, Messi, Cruyff, and Neuer can exceed 92. Track the running average shown after each pick.
Weak squad survival
When forced to pick from a minor nation, take the goalkeeper or the most recognisable starter. In Almanac mode, choose players who reached top European clubs or won individual awards.
Do not waste early wildcards
Skipping Brazil 1970 or Argentina 2022 is almost always a mistake. Only wildcard top-tier teams if every remaining slot is already filled with better players.