National team adds penalty practice ahead of round-of-32 match

The national team practiced penalty kicks on Tuesday as part of preparations for its round-of-32 match. Players watched the previous day's shootouts together. Several said they would rely on their usual technique rather than copy new styles.

Penalty preparation Coaching staff have worked with an outside firm that supplies data on penalties and set pieces. A preferred order of takers has been set, though details were not released. Penalties are now part of the daily routine. The team has never reached a shootout in World Cup play.

Player comments One midfielder said the players who feel most confident will step forward. A defender noted that training covers every scenario, including extra time and penalties. Several players have strong club and national-team records from the spot. Others said they prefer not to take penalties.