Breaking Down UEFA European Championship Penalties: Preparation and Performance

UEFA European Championship Penalties : Preparation and Performance

The UEFA European Championship history is littered with penalty shoot - outs deciding crucial matches , from World Cup finals to Euro finals . England , in particular , has had a dismal record , with only two wins from nine shoot - outs across both tournaments . The pressure and stress of penalties can be daunting , but preparation is key . Coaches like Geir Jordet emphasize the importance of training for these high - pressure situations to improve performance . France coach Didier Deschamps , on the other hand , believes it 's impossible to fully simulate the psychological aspect of penalties in training.

Team Orders and Tactics in Shoot - Outs

Studies show that the order of penalty takers can significantly impact the outcome of shoot - outs . Placing reliable takers early in the order is crucial , as seen in the World Cup final where Messi and Mbappe took the first two kicks for Argentina . Additionally , tactics and gamesmanship play a role in shoot - outs , with teams trying to gain an advantage through various methods . Substitutions of penalty specialists late in games have also become a common strategy to enhance a team 's chances of success.

England 's Quarter - Final Preparations

As England prepares to face Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter - finals , the focus is on penalty preparation . Gareth Southgate 's side has the worst penalty shoot - out record of any team remaining in the tournament . With the possibility of a shoot - out looming , Southgate must carefully select his penalty takers . Players like Cole Palmer , with a faultless record from the spot , could prove pivotal in a potential shoot - out scenario . The pressure is on for England to overcome their historical penalty struggles and advance to the semi - finals.

Podcast Analysis and Player Performances

In the latest episode of the It 's All Kicking Off ! Euros Daily podcast , Ian Ladyman and Mike Keegan discuss England 's performance and the need for tactical changes . They highlight concerns about the team 's unity and suggest potential alterations to the starting lineup . The podcast also covers Portugal 's victory on penalties , with a focus on Cristiano Ronaldo 's emotional reaction and the overall performance of the team . The analysis provides valuable insights into the challenges and dynamics of high - stakes matches in the UEFA European Championship.