Winning Penalty Shootouts: Preparation, Strategies, and Common Misconceptions

Penalty shootouts push players to their limits, testing nerves and skill in intense moments that often determine major football matches.

Even the greatest players have stumbled under this pressure, such as Roberto Baggio in the 1994 World Cup, Kylian Mbappé at Euro 2020, and Lionel Messi during the Copa América. Whether a global icon or an underdog, the shootout can change everything.

Still, certain methods can improve chances of success. Teams and players can't control every factor, but some preparation and approach work better than others. Let's explore practical tips and dispel some myths surrounding penalty shootouts.

Practice Changes Outcomes

The phrase "penalty shootouts are a lottery" suggests results are left to chance, relieving players and managers from responsibility. This idea doesn't hold up under scrutiny.

England lost six out of seven shootouts between 1990 and 2012, yet under Gareth Southgate, focused psychological coaching and rigorous practice helped them win three of four shootouts.

Southgate reflected after beating Switzerland at Euro 2024: "We refined that process a little bit. We have more regular penalty-takers in the squad than we had in 2021 and more that have been in shootouts."

Choose a Spot and Commit

Coaches often tell players to "pick a corner and stick to it." Hesitating or overthinking during the run-up tends to give away control to the goalkeeper.

Players like Alan Shearer showed how a straightforward, confident approach—powerfully striking into a chosen corner without hesitation—forces keepers into near-impossible saves.

Use Substitutions Wisely

Managers sometimes bring on specific players late in extra time, knowing they excel at penalties. These players carry the pressure of scoring when it counts most.

Goalkeepers can be switched too. For instance, Tim Krul was subbed in by Louis Van Gaal during the 2014 World Cup and went on to save two penalties, securing victory for his team.

Implement a Support System

A buddy system helps players handle the stress of shootouts. In England's case, each penalty taker meets a designated teammate at midfield afterward, sharing the moment whether the kick succeeds or fails. This reduces isolation amid the crowd’s noise or silence.

Some teams simulate match conditions closely during training, practicing in the same stadium with spectators present. Recreating pressure situations improves readiness.

Penalty Order Matters

Determining the sequence of penalty takers is strategic. The top five shooters should take the kicks early, rather than saving star players for later. Many shootouts end before the fifth kick, so having your best players take the first shots increases the chance of success.

Don’t Let Past Defeats Weigh You Down

Long-standing struggles, like England’s shootout woes dating back to the 1990 World Cup, created a heavy burden on players and fans alike. Under Southgate, the focus shifted to positive mental preparation and resilience.

For example, even after losing to Italy on penalties at Euro 2020, the team avoided falling into a negative spiral, showing growth in mindset.

• Match Examples:
• Roberto Baggio - 1994 World Cup missed penalty
• Kylian Mbappé - Euro 2020 miss
• Lionel Messi - Copa América penalty miss
• Tim Krul - 2014 World Cup goalkeeper substitution and saves

Understanding these factors gives teams better chances to triumph in the nerve-wracking moments of penalty shootouts.