Winning Penalty Shootouts: Preparation, Strategies & Common Myths

Winning Penalty Shootouts: Preparation, Strategies & Common Myths

Penalty shootouts are the ultimate test in football, pushing players to their limits under immense pressure. What really separates winners from those who falter?

These moments have crushed some of the greatest talents in football history. Think of Roberto Baggio in the 1994 World Cup, Kylian Mbappé at Euro 2020, or Lionel Messi during the Copa América. At this point, no matter your status—superstar or lesser-known squad member—anything can happen.

Still, certain tips and methods improve the odds of success. There's only so much you can do to prepare, but understanding these strategies and dispelling myths can help.

Practice Makes a Difference, Not Just Luck

The idea that penalty shootouts are a "lottery" is common, suggesting outcomes are purely random. This belief often lets players and managers dodge responsibility. England’s record from 1990 to 2012 was grim, losing six out of seven shootouts. Then came Gareth Southgate’s era, where focused practice and psychological work led to three wins in four attempts. Coincidence?

After England’s win over Switzerland at Euro 2024, Southgate said, “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 Your Spot and Commit

Coaches often tell young players to "pick a corner and stick to it." In recent times, many players hesitate, trying to read the keeper's move before shooting, which saps control. Contrast this with Alan Shearer, known for his steady run-up and strong strikes into either corner without second-guessing. This forces the keeper into making extraordinary saves, which is tough.

Use Substitutions Wisely for Shootouts

When games stretch beyond 90 minutes, managers face tough calls about who should take penalties. Some players come on late precisely because they excel in shootouts, bearing heavy pressure to convert. Goalkeepers like Tim Krul, famously subbed in by Louis Van Gaal during the 2014 World Cup, have made a huge impact by saving crucial penalties after entering late.

Implement a Support System

Teams can benefit from systems that ease the pressure. England employs a buddy system where each penalty taker has a teammate waiting on the halfway line after their kick, whether it scores or misses. This helps shield players from the intense atmosphere, good or bad. This idea started under Southgate and continues with Thomas Tuchel.

Many teams also simulate real match conditions during training—using stadiums or crowds to mimic the shootout environment as closely as possible. The aim is to prepare players for the pressure they'll face.

Does Order Matter?

Choosing the order of takers is another factor. The best players should generally take the first five kicks to maximize the chance of winning. Traditionally, teams saved their star for the fifth kick, hoping to clinch victory then. But if the shootout ends earlier, the star might never get to take their shot. It's smarter to have your strongest finishers among the first five.

Don’t Let Past Shootout Losses Weigh You Down

England's long history of shootout struggles began at the 1990 World Cup and lasted over twenty years. Fans expected failure, which seemed to affect players too. Southgate’s approach brought a new mindset—positivity, practice, and mental coaching helped break the cycle. Even when England lost to Italy on penalties at Euro 2020, it didn't spiral into despair as it might have before.

• Match Example: England’s recent shootout successes under Southgate
• Legendary Misses: Roberto Baggio (1994), Kylian Mbappé (Euro 2020), Lionel Messi (Copa América)
• Notable Sub Saves: Tim Krul (2014 World Cup)
• Penalty Taker Strategy: Best five takers go first