Penalty shootouts are often described as a lottery but in reality taking spot-kicks is an art that can be perfected with psychology and preparation.
That’s according to football researcher Geir Jordet, who has written more than 15 scientific journals on the topic.
The Norwegian says the decisive moments happen in the 10 to 15 seconds before stepping up, rather than the technique from the kick itself.
‘First of all, it is key to not let the goalkeeper or other opponents distract you,’ Jordet explains to Sportsmail. ‘They will try to play mind games.