Penalty kicks: where the goalkeeper may stand

Penalty kicks: where the goalkeeper may stand

When a penalty is kicked, at least part of one goalkeeper foot must touch, align with or remain behind the goal line. The kicker must send the ball forward. Other players stay outside the penalty area, behind the mark and at least 9.15 metres away until the ball is in play. A goalkeeper moving early does not make every missed attempt an automatic retake: the outcome and effect on the kicker matter. Consult the official law for the relevant offence and restart.

Source checked: 16 September 2026. This is an independent explanation, not an official referee decision.