The International Football Association Board (IFAB) has clarified the double-touch rule for penalty kicks, giving players like Julian Alvarez a second chance if they unintentionally touch the ball twice while scoring.
Alvarez had slipped while taking a penalty in the Champions League Madrid derby shootout in March, where video review showed he touched the ball twice. The referee ruled the goal invalid, and Real Madrid won 4-2. At the time, UEFA said the current rules forced that decision.
IFAB’s new clarification states that if a penalty taker accidentally touches the ball twice but still scores, the kick should be retaken. This update was to take effect on July 1, but FIFA will apply it early at the upcoming Club World Cup starting June 15 in the U.S., where both Madrid clubs will compete.
IFAB Secretary Lukas Brud explained that the rule is meant to distinguish between deliberate and accidental double touches. Accidental touches, such as slipping or kicking the ball with both feet simultaneously, will now allow for a retake if the goal is scored. If the penalty is missed under these circumstances, it results in an indirect free kick during normal play or remains a miss in a shootout.
This change means Alvarez could get the second chance he missed in March if a similar situation occurs at the Club World Cup.
