rangaistuspotkus

Rangaistuspotku, commonly known as a penalty kick in English, is a method of restarting play in several sports, most notably association football (soccer), ice hockey, and handball. It is awarded when a foul worthy of a direct free kick is committed by a defending player inside their own penalty area. The purpose of the rangaistuspotku is to give the attacking team a clear scoring opportunity from a set position.

In association football, the rangaistuspotku involves one player from the attacking team taking a shot at goal from a designated penalty mark, 12 yards (11 meters) from the goal line. The only opponent allowed on the field is the defending goalkeeper, who must remain on their goal line until the ball is kicked. All other players must remain outside the penalty area and behind the penalty mark. If the kick is saved by the goalkeeper and rebounds into play, other players can then attempt to score.

In ice hockey, a penalty shot is awarded for specific infractions, such as a player being fouled from behind while on a clear breakaway with no defenders between them and the opposing goal. The player taking the penalty shot skates from center ice towards the opposing goaltender and attempts to score without the interference of other players.

Handball also features a rangaistuspotku, typically awarded for fouls that prevent a clear scoring opportunity. The player takes a shot from a designated 7-meter line, with only the goalkeeper defending the goal.