Reference

Head-to-head goal difference calculations come into play when teams have the same number of points at the end of a tournament or league. Here are some of the common criteria used in these calculations:

1. Head-to-Head Record: The performance of teams against each other is considered. It can include the number of points obtained or the results of matches played between the tied teams.

2. Goal Difference in Head-to-Head Matches: This is calculated by subtracting the total number of goals conceded from the total number of goals scored in head-to-head matches.

3. Away Goals: In some competitions, the number of away goals scored in head-to-head matches may also be factored in.

4. Overall Goal Difference: If the head-to-head records are identical, the overall goal difference in the entire tournament or season might be used next.

5. Goals Scored: Some tournaments consider the total number of goals scored across all matches played as a criterion for breaking ties.

Here is an illustrative image on goal difference, which is often one of the decisive factors in determining league standings.

For more detailed rules, various organizations like FIFA, UEFA, and national leagues might have specific variations on how they apply these criteria.

For more detailed insights, you can refer to this Wikipedia article on goal difference or visit articles discussing how major football tournaments use goal differences, such as this one from Goal.com.