Dango Ouattara’s attempt at a panenka penalty proved costly for Brentford as they faced West Ham in the FA Cup quarter-finals on March 9, 2026. The match ended in a dramatic penalty shoot-out after a 2-2 draw in normal time, with West Ham ultimately winning 5-3.

Immediate Circumstances

Ouattara’s penalty was the only miss among nine takers during the shoot-out, a significant moment that dashed Brentford’s hopes of reaching their first major cup final. West Ham’s victory was bolstered by Igor Thiago, who scored twice to equalize after Jarrod Bowen’s initial goals.

The panenka penalty, a technique popularized by Antonin Panenka in the 1976 European Championship final, has become a high-risk option for players. As goalkeepers have grown more adept at reading penalty takers’ intentions, the pressure on players attempting this style has increased. Ouattara’s previous penalties had included a no-step run-up and a wait for the goalkeeper to move, showcasing his unique approach.

Reactions and Statements

Keith Andrews defended Ouattara’s choice to attempt the panenka, stating, “It takes serious courage to do that. He practices that technique a lot. If it goes in, everyone’s raving about him.” Meanwhile, Joe Cole remarked on Ouattara’s confidence before the kick, noting, “He looked so confident, he took his time and looked in complete control and he did that – it’s unexplainable.”

However, Glenn Hoddle expressed concerns about the mental pressure on penalty takers, saying, “He took so long. I think he had a thousand thoughts going through his mind and when you’re like that as a taker you miss.” Andrews also criticized the culture surrounding players who miss penalties, calling it “disgusting” to ridicule national heroes for their failures.

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