US Soccer Taps Brainwaves for Penalty Prowess

In preparation for the 2026 World Cup, the U.S. men's national soccer team has adopted cutting-edge brainwave technology to enhance penalty kick execution. Beginning in January 2025, the team partnered with Neuro11, a German company, to equip players with devices that monitor their brain activity during practice penalties.

The technology aims to quantify player focus and concentration, assisting them in finding optimal shot placement and building confidence. Players wear headgear and abdominal packs that provide real-time feedback on their mental state, helping them achieve a 'zone' of peak performance during intense simulated scenarios.

While some players found the equipment unusual, they acknowledged its effectiveness in improving their penalty-taking ability. Researchers suggest this technology may use functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to differentiate between anxiety-driven prefrontal cortex activity and the motor cortex activation associated with concentration.

This innovative strategy is part of a broader effort to gain marginal advantages in crucial moments, including penalty shootouts and set pieces. The team's staff use the data to coach players on their most confident shot locations, ensuring they are prepared for the psychological demands of major tournaments.