When knockout matches end level, penalties decide it. A full explanation of the rules, order and sudden death.
A penalty shootout decides a match when the score is still level after extra time in knockout games. Each team takes a series of penalties from the spot, in turns.
The basic rule
Each team takes five penalties alternately, and whoever scores more wins. The five don't have to be completed; if one team's win becomes mathematically certain before then, the series ends immediately.
Sudden death
If the five penalties end level, it goes to sudden death: each team takes one kick per round, and the moment one scores and the other misses in the same round, the match is decided.
Key rules
Every eligible player on the pitch must take one kick before anyone can shoot again in sudden death. The goalkeeper must stay on his line until the ball is touched, and the coach chooses the order of takers.
Why is it the hardest mentally?
Because the pressure is immense and the moment decisive, and the goalkeeper often becomes the hero. Follow the biggest knockout matches and shootout moments on Shahid Live.
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