Rangaistuspotkuja

Rangaistuspotkuja, often translated as penalty kicks, are a crucial element in several sports, most notably association football (soccer) and ice hockey. In football, a rangaistuspotku is awarded when a direct free kick offense is committed by a defending player inside their own penalty area. The kick is taken from the penalty mark, which is 11 meters (12 yards) from the goal line. The kicker must strike the ball forward, and all other players must remain outside the penalty area and at least 9.15 meters (10 yards) from the penalty mark until the kick is taken. The goalkeeper is the only player allowed to defend the goal.

In ice hockey, a rangaistuslaukaus (penalty shot) serves a similar purpose but is awarded under different circumstances. It is typically granted when a player is illegally impeded from behind while on a breakaway with a clear scoring opportunity, or in certain other rule infraction situations. The player taking the rangaistuslaukaus starts with the puck at center ice and skates towards the opposing goaltender, attempting to score without any other players involved. The rules regarding the actions of the goaltender and the player taking the shot are specific to ice hockey. Both rangaistuspotkuja and rangaistuslaukaus are high-pressure situations that can significantly influence the outcome of a match.