The Origin of Panenka in Football and How to Execute

The Origin of Panenka in Football

Panenka is a football penalty kick, which many performers around the world perform. This art of unpredictability is among those few skills that are most difficult to master. A kick by Panenka can create an extraordinary opportunity within seconds in a penalty.

Composure is the key to executing a Panenka in football. Only then will calm players be able to deliver precise and effective strikes. Thus, this will be the technique reserved for talented, confident players. To understand full insight into Panenka and how to execute it properly, let’s go further with insights from JiliAce below.

Overview of Panenka in Football

The name “Panenka” originates from the first player to perform it—Antonín Panenka. Executing this kick requires a solid technical foundation, the ability to control the ball’s trajectory, and quick reflexes to deceive the goalkeeper. It is considered one of the most complex techniques in football.

Overview of Panenka in Football
Overview of Panenka in Football

The history of Panenka began during the 1976 UEFA Euro final between Czechoslovakia and West Germany. At the time, Czechoslovakia was considered the underdog against the reigning champions. However, they displayed tremendous determination and led by two goals before West Germany equalized, forcing the game into a penalty shootout.

Many fans expected West Germany to win, as they had one of the best goalkeepers in the world. Yet, Antonín Panenka surprised everyone with a spontaneous and inspired penalty kick, securing Czechoslovakia’s first European Championship victory.

This unique penalty kick quickly became known as “Panenka” and a symbol of creativity in football. Since then, it has been adopted by top players around the globe.

How to Execute a Panenka Kick Correctly

How to Execute a Panenka Kick Correctly
How to Execute this Kick Correctly

To perform a Panenka-style penalty kick, follow these steps:

Step 1: Place the Ball and Prepare Your Run-Up

Place the Ball and Prepare Your Run-Up
Place the Ball and Prepare Your Run-Up
  • Position the ball correctly on the penalty spot and plant your standing foot beside the ball, facing the goal.
  • Step back about five long strides to prepare for your run-up. Gradually accelerate toward the ball, creating the impression that you’ll unleash a powerful strike. Visualize where the ball will land as you approach.
    While five strides are considered the ideal distance, players can adjust their run-up for comfort. However, even a perfect run-up doesn’t guarantee fooling the goalkeeper—it also depends on the player’s confidence and mental focus.

Step 2: Position Yourself for the Kick

  • Stand with your foot about 20–25 cm from the ball. For an optimal chip, aim to make contact with the underside of the ball using your toes.
  • As you approach, raise your kicking leg and position your foot in a “spoon-like” shape to fool the goalkeeper and add spin to the ball.
    At the moment of contact, reduce your speed and apply just enough force to lift the ball gently. Confidence and decisiveness are crucial for executing a flawless Panenka.

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Step 3: Strike the Ball

Strike the Ball
Strike the Ball
  • The run-up and feint aim to mislead the goalkeeper, but the point of contact must be precise. The instep of the foot is the ideal striking point for a Panenka. This technique creates a strong spin and a curving trajectory toward the goal.
    Keep the following in mind:

    • Avoid striking too softly, as this makes it easy for the goalkeeper to intercept.
    • Don’t lean back excessively, as it can cause the ball to miss the target.
    • Pay attention to your standing foot’s placement and your kicking foot’s contact point.

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Tips for Success

  • Overusing this technique is not advisable, as applying too much or too little force can alter the ball’s trajectory and make it easier for goalkeepers to react.
  • Successful Panenka kicks require supreme confidence and experience in deceiving goalkeepers, often using eye contact as a subtle tactic.

Only exceptionally skilled players with a high level of self-assurance can consistently execute this technique successfully.

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Football Legends Who Have Mastered the Panenka Technique

Andrea Pirlo

Andrea Pirlo
Andrea Pirlo


One of Andrea Pirlo’s most iconic Panenka kicks occurred during the 2014 World Cup quarterfinals. As a renowned Italian midfielder, Pirlo executed the Panenka flawlessly in a critical moment, deceiving the goalkeeper and bringing Italy closer to advancing. Pirlo’s composure and confidence made this shot one of the most memorable highlights of his career.

Zinedine Zidane
French football legend Zinedine Zidane showcased his finesse with a Panenka kick during the 1998 World Cup final. His perfectly executed penalty helped France clinch the championship, cementing his place in football history as one of the finest players to master this audacious technique.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi


Lionel Messi is well-known for his ball control and decision-making in high-pressure situations. One of his notable Panenka kicks took place during a match with FC Barcelona, where he outsmarted the opposing goalkeeper with his sharp instincts. The Argentine superstar has utilized this technique in numerous crucial games, contributing to his team’s victories.

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Karim Benzema
In a French league match, Karim Benzema daringly opted for a Panenka penalty, catching goalkeeper Ederson off guard, even while leading 4–2. Benzema’s successful execution in this important match exemplified his skill and confidence, creating unforgettable moments on the field.

Sebastian Abreu

Sebastian Abreu
Sebastian Abreu


Uruguayan player Sebastian Abreu is famous for his stylish and confident Panenka kick during a match against Brazil. His creative and fluid playing style, combined with his boldness, has made him a standout player known for delivering under pressure.

The Essence of the Panenka in Football

In football, the Panenka technique has become a symbol of boldness and finesse. What is Panenka? It’s a penalty kick that requires immense confidence and skill, where the player deceives the goalkeeper by gently chipping the ball into the center of the goal. Success with this technique lies not only in execution but also in the ability to read the game and maintain composure under pressure.

Many football stars have noted that while this technique may seem easy at first glance, its true difficulty becomes apparent on the pitch. Players must perfect their run-up to mislead the goalkeeper, anticipate the goalkeeper’s dive, and ensure the ball’s trajectory avoids interception. Even if the goalkeeper dives, their legs can sometimes block a shot aimed at the center of the goal.

The charm of the Panenka lies in its ability to elevate the ball before it drops into the net, leaving the goalkeeper—already committed to their dive, unable to recover in time.

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Mastering the Panenka

This article has explored the intricacies of this technique, from its origin and execution to the essential factors for success. However, like any football skill, mastering this skill requires consistent practice and a willingness to learn.

The Panenka remains a daring yet iconic move in football, celebrated for its blend of creativity, strategy, and elegance.

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