Penalty shootouts determine the winner when knockout matches end in a draw after extra time.
• Must stay on the goal line until the ball is kicked
• Can move side-to-side on the line
• Cannot touch the goalposts, crossbar, or net
• Goalkeepers can now be slightly off the line (one foot must touch or be behind the line)
• ABBA format was tested but not adopted for World Cup
Basic Rules
1. Each team takes 5 penalties alternately 2. Team with most goals after 5 kicks wins 3. If still tied, sudden death continues 4. Different kickers must be used until all eligible players have taken one
Procedure
1. Referee chooses the goal to be used 2. Coin toss determines which team kicks first 3. All eligible players must remain in the center circle 4. Only the kicker, goalkeeper, and referee enter the penalty area
Goalkeeper Rules
• Must stay on the goal line until the ball is kicked
• Can move side-to-side on the line
• Cannot touch the goalposts, crossbar, or net
Recent Rule Changes
• Goalkeepers can now be slightly off the line (one foot must touch or be behind the line)
• ABBA format was tested but not adopted for World Cup
Famous World Cup Shootouts
The 2022 World Cup final between Argentina and France went to penalties, with Argentina winning 4-2.