Penalty kicks look simple until retakes, encroachment, and VAR enter the chat. This guide explains spot-kick rules in plain language for football fans in Ghana watching local and international matches.
When a penalty is awarded
A penalty kick is awarded for a direct free-kick offence by a defender inside their own penalty area. The referee’s decision can be reviewed under VAR protocols when the competition uses VAR — see VAR and referees in Ghana football.
Basic procedure
- Ball on the penalty mark; identified kicker.
- Goalkeeper on the goal line between posts until the ball is kicked.
- Other players outside the area and behind the penalty mark arc as required.
- Kicker must kick the ball forward.
- Kicker can’t play the ball again until it touches another player.
Common retake reasons
- Goalkeeper leaving the line early in ways that affect the outcome (per current IFAB wording)
- Encroachment by attackers or defenders that impacts play
- Ball not placed correctly / illegal feinting in some cases
- Outside interference
Penalty shoot-outs vs in-game penalties
In-game penalties are part of normal play. Kicks from the penalty mark to decide drawn ties follow a different sequence (alternating kicks, eligibility lists). Don’t mix the two when arguing at a viewing centre.
Fan myths
- “Any stutter-step is always illegal” — IFAB distinguishes certain feints; check current Law 14.
- “Keeper can never move” — feet/line rules are specific; arms can move.
- “VAR must retake every miss” — only when protocols and clear errors apply.
Related rules literacy
Pair with offside explained for broader Laws of the Game confidence.
FAQ
Can the kicker pass a penalty?
Yes — a penalty must go forward; teammates can finish if they entered legally after the kick.
Who takes the next shoot-out kick?
Per competition procedure and remaining eligible players.
Where is the official wording?
IFAB Laws of the Game, Law 14.
Learn the mark procedure, encroachment/retake logic, and shoot-out differences. Let current IFAB text settle arguments — not the loudest voice after a miss.
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