Mastering Penalty Shootouts: Preparation, Strategies & Common Misconceptions

Penalty shootouts represent one of football’s most intense moments, testing a player’s nerve and skill under pressure. Even the greatest players like Roberto Baggio in the 1994 World Cup, Kylian Mbappé at Euro 2020, and Lionel Messi during Copa América have stumbled in these moments. Whether a superstar or an underdog, anything can happen when the spot kicks begin.

Training Makes a Difference

Many call penalty shootouts a lottery, implying that success is mostly luck. This belief often excuses players and managers when things go wrong. Yet, England's transformation from losing six out of seven shootouts between 1990 and 2012 to winning three out of four under Gareth Southgate suggests otherwise. Their improvement came through psychological support and focused practice.

Southgate said after England’s win over 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

A classic lesson coaches pass on is to pick your corner early and not waver. Today’s players sometimes hesitate, waiting to see the goalkeeper’s move before striking, which hands control away from them. Contrast that with someone like Alan Shearer, known for his straightforward run-up and powerful shots into the corners without hesitation. That puts pressure on the keeper to perform miracles.

Strategic Substitutions

Managers may bring on specific players late in extra time for their penalty-taking skills or goalkeeping prowess. This tactic adds pressure but can pay off. A famous example is Tim Krul in the 2014 World Cup, who was substituted in just for the shootout and saved two penalties, sending his team through.

Implement a Support System

Teams often use a buddy system to help players handle shootout pressure. In England’s setup, each shooter meets a teammate at the halfway line after their kick, whether successful or missed, so no one faces the moment alone. This method started with Southgate and has been adopted by others like Thomas Tuchel. Some teams recreate match conditions during practice, including crowd noise and stadium settings, to better prepare for the real event.

Does the Shooting Order Matter?

Arranging the order of shooters is another factor. Instead of saving star players for the last kick, the best takers usually go within the first five attempts. Waiting too long can mean the shootout ends before they get their chance, so putting top players upfront increases the team's chances.

Moving Past Defeats

England's history shows how persistent losses in shootouts can affect morale for years. From the disappointment of the 1990 World Cup onwards, fans and players grew wary of shootouts. Southgate’s approach brought a fresh mindset, focusing on practice and mental strength. Even the 2020 Euro loss to Italy on penalties didn’t cause the kind of despair that might have happened before.

• Match Example: England’s record improved significantly under Southgate with psychological and practical preparation.
• Tip: Pick your penalty spot early and commit without hesitation.
• Strategy: Use substitutions to bring on confident penalty takers or specialist goalkeepers.
• Support: Buddy systems help players manage pressure during shootouts.
• Order: Deploy your best penalty takers within the first five shots.