The Art of the Game
Without a doubt the most difficult shot for a goalie to block in soccer is the penalty kick. Of all the possible scenarios that could arise, the penalty kick is one of the most difficult tasks a goalie will face because all defenders are required to step away from the goal, leaving just you and your opponent. Also because your opponent is placed behind the ball only twelve yards away from the goal! Since the goal measures eight feet in height and twenty-four feet in width it becomes very clear that the goalie is at a disadvantage. Yet, penalty kicks can be blocked. All it takes is the right technique, practice, and an eye for determining where the shot will be aimed.
Let's start with technique. With your opponent directly in front of you and only a few feet to spare, you will find that the sides of the goal are vulnerable. Since you must stand with your heels on the goal line, you are not able to come forward to block the shot before it is kicked. This is where your skill comes into play. Your ability to lunge side to side is important. You will want to learn to complete two distinctive moves to defend your goal. Standing with your heels planted on the line, practice jumping into the air with your hands high above your head, forefingers and thumbs touching. During the jump, arc your body toward the side you are defending. If your opponent aims for the upper corners of the goal, you should be able to catch it in your hands. If the kicker aims for the lower corners of the goal, you will want to dive low with your hands outstretched once again. The idea is to place your body in front of as much of the goal as you can while making a calculated dive for the ball. Pull the ball in close to your body to secure it once you make contact or parry it away.
A goalie with a good eye for knowing where a shot will be fired watches the plant foot. This is the foot the kicker steps on last to hold balance as they swing with the opposite foot. In most cases, the ball will go the direction the plant foot is pointed. Beware of players, who are well practiced