What's at stake

A halftime lead determines which team has momentum and a strategic edge going into the second half.

The scoreboard at 45 minutes decides many in-play outcomes and influences coaches' halftime plans, immediate substitutions, and risk-taking for the closing 45 minutes.

Who's in play

Neymar, Vinícius Júnior and Kaoru Mitoma are key attackers who can produce chances before halftime.

Goalkeepers, fullbacks and central midfielders also decide whether a team leads at 45 minutes, and coaches' early substitutions shape the halftime score.

What drives it

Tactics and possession rates, especially pressing intensity and wing use, change scoring probabilities before the break.

Set pieces, penalties, and early yellow or red cards alter risk-reward; weather, pitch condition and the referee's style can swing the half's outcome.

What to watch

Kickoff and the first 15 minutes reveal which side controls tempo and supplies early chances.

Track shots on target, expected-goals (xG) by 15' and 30', substitutions before halftime, and any bookings or injury stoppages that lengthen stoppage time at 45+.