As the World Cup moves into the knockout phase, the prospect of penalty shootouts becomes a central feature of the competition. Since 1982, 35 shootouts have occurred, involving 320 total kicks. With the tournament expanding to include a round of 32 in 2026, experts anticipate that the record of five shootouts set in 2022 could be surpassed.
Statistical analysis reveals that Argentina stands out as the most proficient team, having won six of their seven shootouts. Conversely, Spain holds the unfortunate record for the most missed penalties, totaling nine. Goalkeepers such as Danijel Subasic and Dominik Livakovic, both from Zadar, Croatia, have demonstrated exceptional skill, each saving four penalties across their tournament appearances. Meanwhile, Portugal’s Ricardo holds the record for the highest save percentage at 75%.
Data indicates that players are statistically safer choosing a side rather than aiming for the center. While central kicks are saved less frequently, they result in more misses by hitting the woodwork or missing the target entirely. Interestingly, there is no significant advantage to kicking first or second. Forwards maintain the highest scoring rate at 75%, compared to 67.9% for midfielders and 65% for defenders. Furthermore, the practice of substituting players strictly for penalty duties has yielded mixed results, with few late entries successfully converting their spot-kicks.
