Imagine scoring one of the most dramatic goals of your career—only to find out it wouldn’t even count under new rules being proposed.
That could soon become reality in the world of football.
A stunning moment from England’s semi-final clash against Italy at the European Championship might soon be a thing of the past if football’s top rule-makers get their way.
Kelly’s Heroic Rebound May Not Survive Rule Changes
It was the 119th minute in Switzerland when Chloe Kelly stepped up, the pressure sky-high.
England had been awarded a last-gasp penalty after Beth Mead was brought down inside the box.
Kelly’s initial shot was saved by Italy’s Laura Giuliani, but she was quick to react and smashed in the rebound—sending England into absolute delirium.
But under rules currently being discussed, moments like that might not be allowed anymore.
Football’s lawmakers are considering removing the opportunity to score on a rebound from a penalty entirely.
Football Lawmakers Propose Scrapping Penalty Rebounds
The proposal comes from the International Football Association Board (IFAB), which is considering a major change to how penalties work.
The idea? Once a penalty is taken, that’s it—no second chances.
If it’s a miss or the keeper saves it, the defending team gets a goal-kick immediately.
No rebounds, no corners, no follow-ups.
This could be rolled out in time for the 2026 World Cup, dramatically changing how some of the sport’s most nail-biting moments unfold.
Iconic Goals That Wouldn’t Happen Under New Rules
It’s not just Kelly’s goal that would be under threat.
Think back to Harry Kane’s rebound goal in extra-time against Denmark during Euro 2020—or even Xabi Alonso’s unforgettable penalty rebound in Liverpool’s 2005 Champions League final comeback.
Under these new rules, neither goal would count.
IFAB’s reasoning is that penalties should be treated as a single action—like a penalty stroke in hockey.
One shot, one outcome. Either the ball hits the back of the net or it doesn’t. End of story.
What’s the Logic Behind This Shift?
Officials believe this change would help cut down on controversial moments involving encroachment and remove what they see as an unfair advantage for attacking teams.
Right now, goalkeepers must keep at least one foot on the line, while attacking players are free to jump on a rebound.
That dynamic is being questioned as potentially too harsh on defenders and goalkeepers.
The Bigger Picture: Rule Reform Ahead of 2026 World Cup
This possible change is part of a broader review aimed at modernising the game.
With the 2026 World Cup expanding to 48 teams, IFAB is looking to streamline and simplify some aspects of football.
These proposed rule tweaks need to be finalised by February next year if they’re going to be introduced in time for the tournament.
VAR Could Be Getting a Power Boost Too
It’s not just penalties under review. VAR is also on the reform table.
IFAB is weighing up whether to allow video checks for things like second yellow cards or even corner kick decisions—though only in cases involving obvious mistakes or unfair dismissals.
The idea is to enhance fairness without slowing the game down even further.
Talks Gained Momentum During Club World Cup
These conversations gained traction during the recent Club World Cup held in the US.
A number of senior football figures are reportedly throwing their support behind the reforms.
While a final decision hasn’t been made yet, the growing backing means we could be seeing a whole new set of rules by the time the next major tournament rolls around.
What Fans Can Expect Next
Nothing is official yet, but change feels inevitable.
If the rulemakers push this through, fans might have to get used to a very different type of penalty drama—one where rebounds and second chances no longer exist.
So next time your team wins a penalty in the final seconds, don’t count on a thrilling rebound saving the day. It might just be one shot—and done.