England’s penalty shootout record has long been a cause for concern, with the team historically struggling in these high-pressure situations. However, recent performances under Gareth Southgate have shown a significant improvement, instilling a newfound confidence in the players.
In their most recent shootout victory against Switzerland in the Euro 2024 quarter-final, England displayed composure and precision. All five penalties were expertly dispatched, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford making a crucial save. This win adds to previous shootout victories against Colombia in the 2018 World Cup and Switzerland in the 2019 Nations League.
Former England defender, Matt Upson, attributes this success to the players’ arrogance and self-belief. He believes that their confidence in themselves plays a crucial role in these key moments. The England players showed no signs of feeling the pressure as they confidently converted their penalties.
One standout performer in the shootout was Cole Palmer, who coolly sent the Swiss goalkeeper the wrong way. Jude Bellingham also brought his trademark energy to the spot, scoring with conviction. Bukayo Saka redeemed himself for his miss in the Euro 2020 final by firing into the side-netting. Ivan Toney, brought on as a substitute, displayed remarkable composure as he scored without even looking at the ball. Trent Alexander-Arnold, who had been dropped earlier in the tournament, capped off the shootout with a powerful strike.
Toney’s penalty technique, which involves maintaining eye contact with the goalkeeper, has been praised by Upson. He believes that Toney’s focus on the psychological aspect of penalties allows him to adjust his shot accordingly, explaining his high success rate from the spot.
The heroics of goalkeeper Jordan Pickford cannot be overlooked. Pickford had carefully studied the Swiss players’ penalty tendencies, including specific instructions on which way to dive for each player. His save from Manuel Akanji proved vital in securing England’s victory. Pickford has an impressive record in shootouts, having saved four out of 14 penalties he has faced in major tournaments.
The current England team’s growth in confidence is evident in their decision to substitute regular penalty taker Harry Kane in extra time. This shows a shift in mentality, as they now have multiple quality penalty takers on the pitch. Gary Neville, former England player, emphasized the importance of technical ability when it comes to penalties. He highlighted the meticulous approach taken by Gareth Southgate and his coaching staff, which involves detailed preparation and practice.
Chris Markham, who worked closely with England managers on penalty preparations, revealed that previous managers often viewed penalties as a lottery or purely luck-based. However, under Southgate’s guidance, the team has adopted a more professional and methodical approach. Breathing techniques, run-up steps, and optimal areas of aiming have all been considered.
Jude Bellingham credited coach Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink for his role in their penalty success. Hasselbaink’s work behind closed doors has been instrumental in preparing the players for these pressure situations. Bellingham also acknowledged the contribution of goalkeepers Dean Henderson, Aaron Ramsdale, and Tom Heaton, who have helped the team practice penalties effectively.
Overall, England’s recent penalty shootout successes can be attributed to a combination of confidence, preparation, and technical skill. The team’s newfound belief, guided by Gareth Southgate and his coaching staff, has transformed penalties from a perceived lottery into a strategic aspect of the game. With this improved mindset and meticulous preparation, England now face penalties without fear or trepidation.