In soccer, the player who takes the penalty kick is the one identified to the referee as the designated penalty taker.
While teams typically decide amongst themselves which player will take a penalty kick, especially during regular play, the crucial step highlighted by the rules is the formal identification of this player to the match official.
The Role of the Referee and Player Identification
According to the rules governing penalty kicks:
- The penalty taker is formally identified to the referee. This ensures clarity for everyone involved before the kick is taken.
- Once identified, this player is solely responsible for taking the kick.
Player Positioning During a Penalty Kick
Beyond the kicker and the goalkeeper, other players must adhere to specific positioning rules while the penalty kick is being taken:
- All players other than the kicker and the keeper must leave the penalty area.
- They must stand behind the penalty spot.
- They must maintain a minimum distance of 9.15 metres (10 yards) from the spot.
- During penalty shoot-outs, the positioning differs slightly: all players remain in the central circle in the middle of the pitch, except for the designated kicker and the goalkeeper defending the goal.
These regulations ensure that the penalty taker has a clear run-up and shot without interference, and that the goalkeeper has an unimpeded view, creating a fair challenge between the two players.
Summary of Penalty Taker Identification
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Selection | Team decides who will take the kick. |
| Requirement | The penalty taker is identified to the referee. |
| Outcome | The identified player takes the shot. |
This process ensures official confirmation of the kicker before play resumes with the penalty kick.
