How to win a World Cup penalty shootout
Winning a World Cup penalty shootout is not just about luck. A new study has looked at every single penalty kick ever taken in World Cup history to find out how teams can win. The data shows clear secrets to success. First, players should always aim high and into the corners of the goal. Goalkeepers almost never save these shots. Second, takers must not rush their run up. Taking a deep breath and waiting for the referee to blow the whistle helps keep players calm. Finally, goalkeepers usually jump too early, so strikers who watch the keeper until the last second have a big advantage. By looking at the past, teams can prepare better and score under pressure. Following these simple steps could be the difference between going home and winning the biggest trophy in football.
