The Drama of Penalty Shootouts

Penalty shootouts are one of the most thrilling aspects of football, often deciding the fate of teams in high-stakes matches. When football historians look back at the most extraordinary penalty shootouts, England's victory over Sweden at Euro 2025 will undoubtedly stand out. This match saw 14 penalties taken, with only five finding the net, six saved, and three missed by the Swedes. The tension was palpable, and as BBC pundit Ellen White aptly put it, it was 'terrifying watching.'

The Psychology Behind Penalties

The notion that penalty shootouts are a lottery has been debunked in the modern era of football, where data and psychology play crucial roles. However, the pressure can still get to even the most elite players. As Alan Shearer famously remarked during England's shootout victory over Switzerland at Euro 2024, 'Pressure is for tyres.' This sentiment was echoed in the Lionesses' chaotic triumph in Zurich.

Historic Shootout Moments

• England vs. Sweden (Euro 2025): England became the first team in Women's Euros history to miss three consecutive penalties and still advance. The 36% conversion rate in Zurich was the lowest in the competition's history.
• Barcelona vs. Steaua Bucharest (1986 European Cup Final): After a goalless 120 minutes, Steaua Bucharest won 2-0 on penalties. Barca's four attempts were all saved by Helmuth Duckadam.
• Vissel Kobe vs. Yokohama Marinos (2020 Japanese Super Cup): This match ended 3-2 to Vissel Kobe, with nine consecutive penalties missed.

The Longest Shootouts

• FC Dimona vs. Shimshon Tel Aviv (2023-24 Liga Alef): A staggering 56 penalties were taken, with FC Dimona winning 23-22.
• Australia vs. France (2023 World Cup): Australia won 7-6 after 20 penalties, setting a record for the longest shootout in World Cup history.

Controversial Shootouts

• Orlando City vs. New York City FC (2020 MLS Play-offs): This shootout featured red cards, retakes, and premature celebrations, lasting 21 minutes and 35 seconds.
• Nigeria vs. Cameroon (2000 Africa Cup of Nations Final): Victor Ikpeba's penalty was controversially not given, leading to Cameroon's 4-3 victory.

Penalty shootouts continue to be a source of drama and excitement in football, with each one adding a new chapter to the sport's rich history.