World Cup FAQ: How are penalties awarded and what are the rules?

Perhaps the most stressful scoring opportunity in football is the one where no one defends: the penalty. A goal is almost certain, provided you keep a cool head and beat the goalkeeper. Pretty simple, right? But what exactly is a penalty and how is it awarded? Here’s everything you need to know about the penalty ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup: What is a penalty? A penalty kick – or “PK” – is a one-on-one duel between a field player and a goalkeeper in which the field player attempts to score a direct kick from the penalty spot. How is a penalty awarded? A penalty is awarded when a player commits a foul – tripping, pushing or handball – inside the penalty area, which is a large 18-yard area that extends from the goal line to the playing field. The total width of the box is 44 yards. A penalty may be awarded during play or during a check by the video assistant referee. Who takes the penalty? The designated penalty taker is usually predetermined based on a player’s proven ability to score, from the penalty spot or otherwise. For example, Harry Kane, England’s active top scorer, is the designated penalty taker for the Three Lions. How far is the penalty point? The penalty kick is 12 meters from the center of the goal line, meaning there are only 12 meters separating the penalty taker and the goalkeeper at the time of a penalty kick. What are the rules for the penalty taker? The penalty taker has the freedom to confuse the goalkeeper during his preparation for the kick provided that: If a penalty taker participates in an illegal feint, he will be warned and an indirect free kick will be awarded to the opposing team. If a penalty taker makes contact with the ball more than once during their attempt and their attempt is successful, the penalty will be retaken. If not, it will be recorded as a failure and playback will resume. What are the rules for the goalkeeper? The goalkeeper must follow three key rules when taking a penalty: face the shooter, stay between the goal posts, and keep at least one foot on or above the goal line until the kick is taken. If a goalkeeper leaves his line during a penalty attempt and the attempt fails, it will be retaken. If the attempt is successful, it will result in a goal. Additionally, goalkeepers may not touch the goal posts, crossbar or net as an intimidation tactic. Trash talk is also prohibited. How often are penalties awarded? There were 23 shots on goal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, six fewer than in 2018. Argentina led all countries in penalty attempts with five, and their designated shooter, Lionel Messi, converted all five attempts.