Why we look away during high-pressure penalties | OneFootball

High-pressure penalties often make even diehards look away, a reaction experts consider normal rather than odd.

According to L'Équipe, Rudi Garcia looked away as Youri Tielemans stepped up to send Belgium into the last 16 after overturning Senegal, 0-2 on 85 minutes to 3-2 after extra time on 1 July.

Ayala Denul, a psychology doctoral researcher at Ghent University, says many fans and coaches avert their eyes because they cannot influence the outcome, which amplifies anxiety, frustration and helplessness.

Penalties specialist Geir Jordet recalls hiding in a car park during the Ryder Cup in the United States as pressure mounted, showing how even elite staff sometimes look away.

Superstition plays a role. Jürgen Klopp long preferred not to watch James Milner’s penalties at Liverpool, and Luis Enrique has also looked away, including in Paris Saint-Germain’s shootout win over Arsenal, 1-1 then 4-3.

Supporters feel similar strain through strong identification, especially in groups, and attention often swings to what might go wrong.

On the pitch, former France forward Yannick Stopyra says takers try to block distractions and that emotion can decide a kick. Jordet warns leaders averting their gaze may sap team belief and boost rivals. At home, close them if you must.

Source: L'Équipe