Get free access to the most comprehensive World Cup coverage in The Athletic app.Once the knockout rounds begin, World Cup Fantasy becomes a completely different game.Fewer matches, tighter contests and less room for error generally means there are fewer points to grab the deeper we get in the competition.This is why your booster strategy can determine whether you climb the rankings or fall behind.Here’s a look at the five booster chips, and when they should ideally be used.WildcardThe Wildcard allows unlimited transfers within a round.If you still have your Wildcard, I think the best time to use this would be in the round of 16. We have unlimited transfers for the round of 32, so you can build a one-matchday team (essentially a free hit) and then set your side up for the last 16 onwards.This can be especially advantageous if we get some upsets. While others will be using their transfers to take out eliminated players, wildcarders can start afresh.Using the Wildcard in the round of 16 allows managers to:
Remove players from eliminated teams
Load up on the best players from the remaining sides
Avoid taking a multiple-points hit
Build a squad specifically designed for the final stages.
