Indeed, for the US, I can see four points and a decent Goal Diff will be enough to advance from the group.

Depends on the state TBH. Here in MA, it is written into the athletic bylaws that the Refs can enforce penalties as long as both teams and officials are still present. We had a Soccer team recently get booted from the state tourney for drawing a 5th yellow card for a foul committed well after the game ended but before…