strafschopstip

A strafschopstip, often referred to as the penalty spot or penalty mark, is a designated spot on a football (soccer) pitch from which a penalty kick is taken. Its precise location is standardized by the Laws of the Game. The penalty mark is situated 12 yards (11 meters) directly in front of the midpoint of the goal line. This distance ensures a consistent challenge for both the penalty taker and the goalkeeper. The spot itself is usually a small white circle, approximately 3 feet (0.91 meters) in diameter, though the exact size can vary slightly between different grounds. When a penalty is awarded, the ball is placed on this spot, and all players except the penalty taker and the defending goalkeeper must remain outside the penalty area, at least 10 yards (9.15 meters) from the penalty spot, until the kick is taken. The strafschopstip is a critical component of the penalty kick procedure, determining the exact position from which this high-pressure attacking opportunity originates.