New Penalty Kick Rules Implemented Ahead of Nations League Clash
Clarification on Penalty Kick Regulations
On Tuesday, UEFA clarified the rules surrounding penalty kicks after Julián Álvarez's accidental double touch led to Atlético Madrid's exit from the Champions League. The updated interpretation will be applied in the upcoming Nations League match between Germany and Portugal, set to take place at the Munich Football Arena. According to the revised guidelines introduced by IFAB and endorsed by FIFA, Álvarez's penalty, which was disallowed during a shootout against Real Madrid in March, must be retaken.
IFAB's Official Statement on the New Rule
🚨 BREAKING: IFAB has amended the rule that saw Julian Alvarez's penalty rendered void.
— HF World (@hfworld_) June 3, 2025
A new circular states that it “understands the referees,” but clarifies that Law 14 was designed for intentional double touches
The wording now adds that these types of penalties be retaken. pic.twitter.com/oVgfUT9fCP
IFAB released a statement explaining, "This situation is uncommon, and since it is not explicitly addressed in Law 14, referees have understandably penalized the kicker. However, this section of Law 14 primarily applies to cases where the penalty taker intentionally touches the ball a second time before it has been played by another player."
Further Clarifications from IFAB
IFAB has communicated to clubs, leagues, and players that any penalty kick resulting from an accidental double touch must be retaken. If a player fails to score on the first attempt, the penalty is considered missed. In such cases, the defending team is awarded a free kick during regular or extra time. This updated law will be enforced starting June 14 at the Club World Cup in the United States, which features 32 teams, including Atlético.