There’s no greater drama in soccer than World Cup penalty shootouts. Heroes are born, legends fall, and nations hold their breath. For some, it’s the ultimate glory. For others, it’s the cruelest way to exit the tournament. These 15 penalty shootouts are the most heart-stopping, gut-wrenching, and unforgettable moments in World Cup history.

1. Argentina vs. France – Final (2022)

After a 3-3 thriller, the final went to penalties. Argentina triumphed 4-2, with Emiliano Martínez’s mind games and Messi’s composure stealing the show.

2. Brazil vs. Italy – Final (1994)

The first World Cup final to be decided by penalties. Roberto Baggio’s infamous miss sealed Brazil’s fourth title in one of the tensest finishes in history.

3. Germany vs. England – Semifinal (1990)

A painful memory for England. The match ended 1-1, and Germany won 4-3 in the shootout. Paul Gascoigne’s tears and Stuart Pearce’s miss became iconic.

4. Italy vs. France – Final (2006)

Zidane’s headbutt overshadowed what became a tense shootout. Italy won 5-3, and Fabio Grosso scored the winning penalty in a legendary conclusion.

5. Croatia vs. Denmark – Round of 16 (2018)

After early goals, the match stayed 1-1. Both keepers made stunning saves in the shootout, but Croatia edged it 3-2 thanks to Luka Modrić’s leadership.

6. Spain vs. South Korea – Quarterfinal (2002)

Controversial officiating and a 0-0 stalemate led to penalties. South Korea won 5-3, sparking debate and wild celebrations.

7. Argentina vs. Netherlands – Semifinal (2014)

Goalless for 120 minutes. Argentina’s goalkeeper Sergio Romero became the hero, saving two penalties in a 4-2 shootout win.

8. England vs. Colombia – Round of 16 (2018)

England’s first-ever World Cup penalty shootout win. Jordan Pickford saved and Eric Dier scored the decisive penalty in a 4-3 win.

9. Russia vs. Spain – Round of 16 (2018)

After a 1-1 draw, Russia shocked the world by defeating Spain 4-3 on penalties. Igor Akinfeev’s heroic saves made headlines.

10. Germany vs. Argentina – Quarterfinal (2006)

It ended 1-1, and Jens Lehmann’s infamous cheat sheet helped Germany win 4-2. One of the smartest goalkeeping performances ever.

11. Portugal vs. England – Quarterfinal (2006)

Wayne Rooney’s red card and Cristiano Ronaldo’s wink set the stage. Portugal won 3-1 after England crumbled under pressure yet again.

12. Brazil vs. Chile – Round of 16 (2014)

Tied 1-1, this shootout saw Neymar convert and Júlio César save two penalties to rescue the hosts in front of a raucous Rio crowd.

13. Uruguay vs. Ghana – Quarterfinal (2010)

After Suárez’s infamous handball, Ghana missed the extra-time penalty. The shootout ended 4-2 in Uruguay’s favor—one of the most dramatic tie-breakers ever.

14. France vs. Italy – Quarterfinal (1998)

A defensive battle that ended 0-0. Italy missed a crucial spot-kick, and France advanced 4-3 on penalties en route to winning the tournament.

15. Sweden vs. Romania – Quarterfinal (1994)

After a 2-2 draw, Sweden advanced 5-4 in the shootout. Thomas Ravelli’s save sent Sweden to their first semifinal in decades.

Conclusion

Penalty shootouts are pure drama. They deliver heartbreak, elation, and stories that last for generations. From the agony of missed kicks to the ecstasy of last saves, these 15 tie-breakers prove why the World Cup is the most emotionally charged tournament in sports.