What is a penalty kick in football?
A penalty kick is football's ultimate individual sanction: awarded when a player commits a direct free-kick offence inside their own penalty area. It is taken from the penalty spot, 11 metres from goal, with the opposing goalkeeper as the only defender.
Execution step by step
- The ball is placed stationary on the spot.
- The taker identifies themselves to the referee and stands behind the ball.
- The goalkeeper stays on the goal line between the posts; at least one foot must touch the line until the ball is struck.
- Every other player stays outside the box and 9.15 m from the penalty spot.
- The referee blows, and the taker shoots.
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Ver App GratisKey rules during the kick
| Action | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| Run-up before the kick | Yes, no illegal pause |
| Final feint (full stop) | No, that is an offence |
| Keeper moving forward before the strike | No (at least one foot on the line) |
| Touching the ball twice in a row | No |
| Rebound off post or keeper, then shoot | Yes, if another player touches it first or it goes straight in |
If taken correctly and it goes in, it's a goal. If the keeper parries or the ball comes back, play is live and there can be a rebound.
Conversion rates
| Level | Goal rate |
|---|---|
| Top European league | ~75-80% |
| International (World Cup) | ~75% |
| Penalty shootout (max pressure) | ~70% |
Despite the short distance and big goal (7.32 m × 2.44 m), keepers guess the right side around 50% of the time.
Penalty kick vs penalty shootout
- In-play penalty: within the 90 minutes (or extra time), after a foul. If it scores, it's a goal and play continues.
- Penalty shootout: a series of kicks after extra time with no winner. Sides alternate at least 5 shots each.
FAQ
Can the keeper move forward before the kick? They must keep at least one foot on the goal line until the ball is struck.
What if the taker feints and stops completely? That's an offence. If it goes in, it's disallowed; if it misses, it's retaken and the taker is booked.
Can you pass a penalty to a team-mate? Yes, as long as the ball moves forward.
How much is a converted penalty worth? One goal. Same as any other.
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