Before a penalty shootout begins, what must teams do?

Before a penalty shootout begins, teams must choose their five penalty takers and notify the referee. This requirement ensures that there is a clear understanding of who will participate in the shootout and helps maintain the structure and flow of the procedure. The selected players can be any eligible player on the team, and notifying the referee serves to keep the officiating team informed and prepared for the shootout process. This aspect of the rules is crucial for clarity and organization, allowing the shootout to proceed smoothly and fairly.

Other options do not align with the established procedures for penalty shootouts in soccer. For example, deciding a match winner in advance would contradict the competitive nature of the game; no team can assume victory without actually competing in the shootout. Practicing penalty kicks, while a common strategy for players, is not a formal requirement that must be fulfilled before the shootout occurs. Similarly, simply selecting a designated goalkeeper is insufficient, as it is equally important to designate the penalty takers who will attempt the shots.