England’s Penalty Masterclass: Chloe Kelly’s Unique Technique Shines Again
Chloe Kelly’s name has become synonymous with clutch moments for the England women’s national team. Her latest heroics in the Euro 2025 final against Spain once again highlighted her remarkable ability to deliver under pressure, particularly when it comes to taking penalties.
The winger, who previously scored the winning goal in the 2023 Wembley final against Germany, found herself in a similar position three years later in Basel. This time, she converted a crucial penalty in the shootout to secure a 3-1 victory over Spain and retain the European title. While the celebration of her goal was familiar, her penalty technique stood out as something truly unique.
Kelly’s approach to the spot is unlike any other player in both men’s and women’s football. Instead of the traditional run-up, she begins by spinning the ball before placing it on the penalty mark. She then takes a step back, raises one knee, and skips forward toward the ball. Her methodical routine allows her to stay focused and composed, which she credits as key to her success.
Speaking to the BBC, Kelly explained that she developed this technique during her teenage years at Everton. “It’s something that just works for me,” she said. “I can’t explain it too much. I actually spoke with one of the coaches the other day about it. It’s just my routine that works for me. I take my time, I take my breath, and I’m confident in that.”
When asked about the reason behind the spin, Kelly added, “It’s just making sure that I am ready, not letting anyone take me off my routine. I spin the ball so I feel like it is right and then, when I am ready, there is no amount of time, that’s just when I feel that’s the perfect one.”
Over her career, Kelly has taken 11 penalties, scoring eight of them. Notably, she missed one in the semi-final against Italy but quickly redeemed herself by converting the rebound, sending England into the final. After the final, she declared, “I was adamant I wasn’t missing two on the bounce.” Her powerful penalty sealed the victory and maintained her perfect record for the Lionesses in shoot-outs, with four goals scored.
Expert Insights on Kelly’s Technique
Penalty expert Geir Jordet, a professor at the Norwegian School of Sport Sciences and author of Pressure: Lessons from the Psychology of the Penalty Shootout, analyzed Kelly’s performance during the Euros. He praised her calm and controlled approach, especially during the quarter-final shootout against Sweden.
Jordet noted how Kelly remained unfazed by the goalkeeper’s actions, waiting patiently before engaging with the spot. “She examined the ball with her feet, brushed it on the grass, and took her time,” he said. “That shows a player in control.”
He also highlighted her unique run-up, which included a smile that signaled genuine confidence rather than forced composure. “Usually, when I see a penalty-taker smile, I think, ‘This isn’t a good sign.’ But that wasn’t the case with Kelly’s smile. It was a genuine reaction to Falk. She seemed truly relaxed in that moment.”
Jordet emphasized the psychological strength behind Kelly’s technique. “The courage to do that under pressure is admirable. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone, male or female, do anything like it. The way she angled her foot and turned it to the right caught the Swedish goalkeeper off guard. No one else in the shootout did that. If that’s the case, then her technique is exceptional.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Chloe Kelly’s penalty-taking ability has become a defining feature of her career. Whether it’s the 2023 final or the Euro 2025 showdown, she consistently rises to the occasion. Her unique style, rooted in personal routine and mental preparation, sets her apart from other players.
As England continues to build its legacy in international football, Kelly’s contributions—both on and off the pitch—serve as a testament to the power of confidence, consistency, and individuality in high-stakes moments.
