World Cup 2026 Extra Time and Penalty Shootout Rules

Two Round of 32 matches went to penalties on Monday after ending level. Paraguay stunned Germany with a 4-3 shootout win following a 1-1 draw. Morocco beat the Netherlands 3-2 on penalties after a late equaliser forced extra time.

What Is Extra Time in the World Cup

Extra time settles knockout matches that stay tied after 90 minutes. It gives both teams one more chance to score before penalties decide the outcome. This stage only applies once the tournament reaches the knockout rounds.

How Long Does Extra Time Last

Extra time runs for 30 minutes total, split into two 15 minute halves. Teams switch ends at the break, just like in regular play. A goal at any point during extra time can still win the match outright.

When Do Penalty Shootouts Happen

A shootout begins only if the score stays level after extra time ends. Each team then sends five players to take penalties in turn. The match moves to sudden death if the scores remain tied after five rounds each.

Penalty Shootout Rules Explained

A coin toss decides which goal hosts the shootout first. A second toss determines which team shoots first. Teams alternate every attempt, starting with Team A followed by Team B.

Only players on the pitch when extra time ends can take a penalty. Any eligible player, including the goalkeeper, may step up to shoot. The shootout ends the moment one team scores while the other misses in the same round.

Goalkeepers must stay on their line and face the shooter until contact. They can shift sideways along the line but cannot step forward early. Referees can order a retake if a goalkeeper moves too soon.

Famous World Cup Penalty Shootouts

Brazil beat Italy 3-2 on penalties in the 1994 final, the first final ever decided this way. West Germany and Argentina both won 4-3 shootouts during the 1990 semifinals. Italy defeated France 5-3 on penalties during the 2006 final.

Brazil edged Chile 3-2 on penalties in the 2014 round of 16. Croatia won two shootouts during their 2018 run, beating Denmark then Russia. Monday's Paraguay win marked Germany's first ever World Cup shootout loss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long is extra time at the World Cup?

Extra time lasts 30 minutes, split into two 15 minute halves with a break.

Q: What happens if extra time ends in a tie?

The match moves to a penalty shootout to decide the winner.

Q: Can any player take a penalty in a shootout?

Yes, any player still on the pitch at full time can take a kick, including goalkeepers.

Q: What is sudden death in a penalty shootout?

Sudden death starts if the score stays tied after five penalties each. It ends once one team scores and the other misses in the same round.

Q: Has Germany ever lost a World Cup shootout before 2026?

No. Monday's loss to Paraguay was Germany's first ever World Cup shootout defeat.