A football penalty is a punishment awarded to a team when an opposing player commits a foul within the penalty area. This typically results in a direct free kick taken from the penalty spot, which is 12 yards from the goal. The player taking the penalty kick aims to score while the goalkeeper tries to prevent the goal. Penalties can be awarded for various infractions, such as tripping, holding, or handball. If the penalty kick is successful, it counts as one goal for the attacking team. Penalties are crucial moments in a match, often influencing the game's outcome significantly.