The penalty kick in soccer—simultaneously loved and loathed, depending on which side of the pitch you find yourself on—has a storied history that traces its origins back to the late 19th century. The rule has undergone several changes, always in pursuit of perfecting the balance between fairness and excitement. Let’s take a walk down memory lane and revisit the key milestones in the history of the soccer penalty kick.
The penalty kick was introduced in 1891 to the Laws of the Game, the rules that govern the beautiful game globally. William McCrum is often credited with the invention of the penalty kick. Before its introduction, there were limited options for penalizing fouls in the penalty area, often leading to unfair advantages.
Rule Adjustments in the Early 20th Century
Initially, the penalty kick was taken from any point 12 yards from the goal line. However, as time progressed, minor tweaks were made. One such adjustment was standardizing the penalty spot, which is now exactly 12 yards from the goal line and equidistant from both goalposts.
Over time, rules have also evolved to clarify the goalkeeper’s role during a penalty kick. Initially, goalkeepers were allowed to stand anywhere between the posts but had to remain still until the kick was taken. Today, they must have at least one foot on, or in line with, the goal line when the kick is taken and are allowed to move laterally.
1990's Sudden Death
While penalty kicks during regular match time remained essentially unchanged, the introduction of the "penalty shootout" in the early ’70s dramatically affected the knockout stages of tournaments. However, it was in the ’90s when the "sudden death" format was introduced, adding an extra layer of drama to shootouts.
Modern Era
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, introduced in the late 2010s, has significantly impacted penalty kicks. VAR is now used to review decisions related to penalty kicks, which has ignited debates about whether technology has improved fairness or disrupted the flow of the game.
The penalty kick, a rule over a century old, has undergone numerous changes, each with controversies and talking points. From its inception in 1891 to the modern-day use of VAR, the penalty kick continues to evolve, reflecting the broader changes in the sport of soccer itself.
As the game continues to grow globally, the rules surrounding the penalty kick will undoubtedly continue to be scrutinized, debated, and, inevitably, adapted.
Approaching to Take a Penalty Kick
Being selected to take a penalty kick in soccer can be a high-pressure situation, but successfully executing a well-struck PK involves a combination of technique, mental preparation, and strategy.
Mental Preparation
- Calm Your Nerves: The first thing to do is to calm yourself. Take deep, slow, controlled breaths and try to block out distractions.
- Visualize Success: Before you even approach the ball, visualize yourself scoring. Picture the ball sailing into the net and how you’ll strike it.
Setting Up
- Placement: Place the ball on the penalty mark. Ensure it is not moving and you are comfortable with its position.
- Measure Your Run-Up: Take a few steps back and to the side of the ball to give yourself a good angle for your kick. The run-up distance can vary from player to player; find what works best for you through practice.
- Select Your Target: Choose a spot in the net where you intend to place the ball. It’s generally more challenging for the goalkeeper to reach shots aimed toward the corners of the goal.
- Eye Deception: Keep your eyes neutral or use them to deceive the goalkeeper. Some players look one way and shoot the other. However, focus on your technique first and foremost.
