What is Penalty Shootout? Football Definition & Meaning

World Cup 2026 Rules & Context

Five players from each team take shots alternately. If one team gains an insurmountable lead, the shootout ends. If tied after five rounds, it goes to sudden death where teams shoot one-by-one until a winner is determined. Use this context alongside the official match schedule and stadium guides when planning viewing parties or travel between host cities.

Practical Example

“Argentina famously defeated France in a penalty shootout to win the 2022 World Cup Final.”