FIFA wants to change shootout rules before World Cup knockouts
FIFA proposes single coin toss. Goal: simplify shootout procedure, limit random advantages before World Cup 2026 knockouts.
Current rules require two coin tosses. First toss decides team kicking first. Second toss decides goalpost used.
New proposal: single toss winner chooses either kick order (first/second) or goalpost. Opponent gets remaining choice.
FIFA awaits International Football Association Board (IFAB) approval. If approved, referees conduct one coin toss instead of two before shootout.
Lionel Messi scores penalty for Argentina against France, World Cup 2022 final, Lusail Stadium, Qatar, December 18, 2022. Photo: AFP
Change prevents one team winning both advantages. Happened in 2025-2026 Champions League final. PSG won both tosses, chose kick order and goalpost. Paris club won 4-3, defended title.
Observers say FIFA wants simpler shootout process. Goal: reduce controversy over luck-based coin toss advantages.
Stats show team kicking first holds psychological advantage. Leading forces opponent to chase score, increasing pressure. Studies show higher win rate for first-kicking team.
Coin toss before Arsenal vs PSG shootout, Champions League final, Puskas Arena, Budapest, Hungary, May 30, 2026. Photo: Reuters
Not first time FIFA, IFAB try adjusting shootout format. Lawmakers previously tested "ABBA" system to reduce first-kick advantage.
Traditional format: alternate kicks (A-B-A-B-A-B). ABBA system: Team A kicks first, Team B takes next two, then Team A takes two. Sequence: A-B-B-A-A-B-B-A.
Example: Team A kicks first, Team B takes second and third, Team A takes fourth and fifth. Model based on tennis tie-break. Goal: reduce pressure on second-kicking team.
ABBA dropped after trials. Too complex. Players, referees, fans struggled tracking kick order.
Unclear if rule becomes mandatory worldwide or optional for local organizers if IFAB approves.
Norwegian newspaper VG reports FIFA hopes for approval before World Cup 2026 knockouts start June 28. If approved, rule applies immediately to knockout shootouts.
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