FIFA mulls single toss for World Cup penalty shoot‑outs

FIFA is considering a rule change before the knockout stage of the World Cup to make the penalty shoot‑out fairer. The proposal would replace the current two‑toss system with a single toss that determines the kicking order or goal.

Currently, two tosses are used: the first decides which side the shoot‑out is played on, and the second decides which team kicks first. This double‑toss method has been in place for recent tournaments.

FIFA and the International Football Association Board are studying how a single toss could improve fairness. The joint review looks at giving the toss winner the choice of kicking first or selecting the goal.

Under the suggested format, the winner of the single toss may choose to kick first or to which goal the kicks are directed, while the loser automatically receives the opposite option. This would eliminate the need for a second toss.

The most recent high‑profile example involved the Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint‑Germain, where Paris Saint‑Germain won both tosses but ultimately lost the penalty shoot‑out. The match highlighted how the current system can produce unexpected outcomes.

It remains uncertain whether the new single‑toss rule will be implemented for this World Cup. FIFA has yet to announce a final decision before the knockout matches begin on Sunday.