The 'One Shot' system, which has started to be tested in MLS, puts an end to rapid penalties. Matches can now end with a single hit.
MLS is breaking new ground with its 'One Shot' system, which aims to reduce uncertainty and penalty stress in single-game qualifying rounds. This new format comes into play as an alternative to quick penalties. Its basis is that a single goal scored by a team in the penalty shootout determines the winner of the match.
The system can also be applied in the extra period played after normal time. If the tie is not broken in extra time, 'One Shot' comes into play directly before proceeding to the penalty shootout. The first official trial of One Shot took place in the MLS Cup qualifiers in the 2024 season.
C. In the quarter-final match played between United and Orlando City, extra time ended in a 1-1 draw. Instead of going to penalty kicks, the match ended 2-1 with the goal of Orlando City, which took the first shot with the One Shot system.
This change shakes player preparations to their core. The lack of statistical data for goalkeepers creates a paradox, while forwards are deprived of the luxury of finding rhythm. The fact that everything will end with a single shot pushes coaches to prioritize "coolness" in last-minute changes.
Fatigue management becomes secondary; because the fate of the match rests on that single moment of execution placed on the shoulders of a designated hitter. From a broadcasting perspective, the elimination of rhythmic penalty streaks concentrates the drama on a single point. Advertisers and broadcast networks win with a definitive ending that doesn't extend the broadcast of matches.
This format recognizes the modern viewer attention span, offering instant certainty that feels less like a game of chance and more like an execution, rather than the lingering pain of a missed shot in the fifth round. While traditional penalty shoot-outs are a marathon based on deep squads and endurance, One Shot reduces this equivalent to a single instant execution. This format creates an unforgiving atmosphere by increasing the psychological burden on the player who will take the kick.
The change in extra time of coaches changes their strategies; Because they have to face the fact that the match will end with a mistake at any moment, knowing that there will be no rhythmic shooting series. This innovation reveals the importance football authorities attach to format experiments in order to keep the audience's interest alive. Although the IFAB is cautious about fundamental changes to the penalty rules, MLS serves as a de facto laboratory.
The league management, which wants to prevent the loss of audience during the extended penalty shoot-outs, aims to reach the final moment quickly without reducing the tension of the match. In addition to MLS, the One Shot system was also tried in the CONCACAF Champions League. The feasibility of the system was tested in four different matches throughout 2024.
CONCACAF officials stated that the system eliminates uncertainty in the tournament format and ensures that matches conclude faster. Making a statement about the One Shot system, MLS CEO Don Garber said, "We implemented this system to reduce the uncertainty and stress experienced in the single-match qualifying rounds. " This step by MLS is also met with interest in other major football leagues.
While the applicability of the system is being discussed in Europe, some tournaments are expected to adopt One Shot. Read at Hürriyet Spor
Penalty stress directly affects the performance of teams in single-match qualifying rounds. The uncertainty of the time and the prolonged penalty shootout become a harrowing experience for both players and fans. The One Shot system eliminates this stress and determines the fate of the matches with a single shot. In this way, it is aimed to conclude the tournaments faster and minimize uncertainty. Additionally, the feasibility of the system gives hope that it can be adopted in other major tournaments in the future.
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