What is a penalty shootout in football?
A penalty shootout is the procedure that decides a knockout match still level after extra time. Each team takes a series of penalties, and whoever converts more wins.
How it works
- Before starting, the referee and captains hold a draw to choose the end and which side shoots first.
- Each side takes 5 penalties, alternating, with a different taker every time.
- If still tied after 5, it goes to sudden death: alternating kicks until one misses and the other scores.
- Every player on the pitch at the end of extra time can take part, including the goalkeeper.
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Ver App GratisKey rules
| Rule | Detail |
|---|---|
| Opening round | Minimum 5 kicks per team |
| Who shoots | Only players on the field at the end of extra time |
| Repeating a taker | Only after all others have shot at least once |
| Substitute goalkeeper | Allowed if a substitution is still available |
| Goalkeeper position | At least one foot on the line until the kick |
If one side has won mathematically before the 5th kick (4-1 after four, for example), the shootout ends immediately without the remaining kicks.
Historical stats
- Most successful team at World Cup shootouts: Germany (including West Germany), 6-0 record.
- Most losing record: England, until the recent turnaround.
- Longest top-level shootout: 25 kicks per side (KK Palace vs Civics, Namibia 2005).
Shootout strategy
- Going first carries a psychological edge (~60% win the shootout).
- Goalkeepers study each taker's preferences (favoured side, last penalty taken).
- Order is usually: 2 strong takers first, less experienced in the middle, the best for the 5th.
FAQ
What is the minimum number of kicks? 5 per side, unless one wins mathematically before that.
Can a player take a second kick? Only after all team-mates have taken at least one.
Can a substitute keeper come in just for the shootout? Yes, if a substitution is still available.
Do shootout goals count in the final score? No. They decide the qualifier but don't change the official match score.
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