ABSTRACT

In this paper two exploratory studies are presented which focus on different control strategies for penalty kicks from the perspective of both shooter and goalkeeper. Penalty kicks play a decisive role in regular games but are especially important in cup competitions. A review of English and German soccer literature reveals some tactical advice on taking penalty kicks. For example, Cramer (1952) and Schmid et al., (1968) have identified two basic styles of executing penalty kicks, one emphasising power, the other accuracy. The kick for accuracy (position kick) is usually initiated with a fake. Cramer (1952) recommended the power kick as it can hardly be stopped even if lacking precision.