Penalty kick is one of the most dramatic moments in soccer, where everything slows down and the entire stadium holds its breath.
In this article, you’ll discover what is a penalty kick, how FIFA’s soccer rules work, and the difference between regular penalties and shootouts.
What Is a Penalty Kick in Soccer?
A penalty kick is awarded when a defending player commits a foul inside their own penalty area, giving the attacking team a direct opportunity to score from the spot.
Common situations that lead to a penalty include:
- Pulling or pushing an attacking player
- Sliding in without touching the ball
- Handball in an unnatural position
- Deliberately denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity
Further Reading: Mastering the Free Kick: Rules, Types, and Pro Tips!
Soccer Penalty Kick Rules
| Aspect | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| Distance | Penalty spot is 12 yards from goal. |
| Goalkeeper | Both feet on the goal line until the kick. |
| Kicker | Shoot only after the referee’s whistle. |
| Other Players | Stay outside the box until the ball is kicked. |
| Infringements | Early movement may lead to a retake or canceled goal. |
Iconic Penalty Moments in FIFA World Cup
- 1990 – England vs West Germany
Stuart Pearce and Chris Waddle both missed their penalties, causing England to fall short in the semifinals. - 1994 – Italy vs Brazil
Roberto Baggio sent the decisive kick over the bar in the final, giving Brazil the World Cup title. - 2006 – Italy vs France
David Trezeguet’s shot hit the crossbar and bounced out, helping Italy secure the championship. - 2018 – Denmark vs Croatia
Goalkeepers Kasper Schmeichel and Danijel Subašić each saved two penalties in a dramatic duel, with Croatia ultimately advancing. - 2022 – Argentina vs France
Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé both converted their penalties, and Argentina went on to win the title in the shootout.
Penalty Kick vs Penalty Shootout
| Comparison Item | Penalty Kick | Penalty Shootout |
|---|---|---|
| When It Happens | Awarded for fouls inside the box during regular play | Used after extra time to determine the winner |
| Pressure Level | High | Extremely high |
| Impact | Affects the score and momentum during the match | Determines the overall result of the game |
| Common Situations | VAR handball decisions or fouls in the penalty area | Knockout rounds ending in a draw |
Penalty Kick Soccer FAQs
Q: What is a penalty kick?
A penalty kick is a direct free kick awarded in sports like soccer and rugby for a serious foul committed by the defending team in their own penalty area.
Q: How far is a penalty kick?
A penalty kick distance is taken from a spot 12 yards (11 meters) from the center of the goal line.
Q: Why are penalty kicks given?
A penalty kick is awarded if a player commits a direct free kick offense inside their penalty area or off the field as part of play.
