Soccer Rules Explained

A player is in an offside position if:

• They are closer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second-last defender when the ball is passed to them.

• They are actively involved in the play (e.g., receiving a pass or interfering with an opponent).

A player is not offside if they:

• Are in their own half of the field.

• Are level with the second-last defender when the ball is played.

• Receive the ball directly from a goal kick, throw-in, or corner kick.

If a player is offside and becomes involved in the play, the referee stops the game, and the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick.

When a team commits a foul, the opposing team may be awarded a free kick. There are two types:

Direct Free Kick

• A goal can be scored directly from the free kick.

• Given for serious offenses such as dangerous tackles, handballs, or charging an opponent.

Indirect Free Kick

• A goal cannot be scored directly; the ball must touch another player before entering the goal.

• Given for infractions like dangerous play, offside violations, or a goalkeeper holding the ball for more than six seconds.

A penalty kick is awarded when a foul occurs inside the penalty box (the 18-yard area).

• The ball is placed on the penalty spot, 12 yards from the goal.

• Only the goalkeeper and the penalty taker are allowed in the area.

• The goalkeeper must remain on the goal line until the ball is kicked.

If the ball enters the goal, it counts as a goal. If saved or missed, play continues.

Corner Kick

Awarded when the ball crosses the goal line (but not into the goal) after being last touched by the defending team.

• The attacking team takes the kick from the corner nearest where the ball went out.

• The ball must be placed inside the corner arc.

Goal Kick

Awarded when the attacking team kicks the ball over the goal line without scoring.

• The defending team takes the kick from inside the goal area.

• Opponents must remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play.

A throw-in is awarded when the ball fully crosses the sideline.

• The team that did not touch the ball last gets the throw-in.

• The player must use both hands and keep both feet on the ground while throwing.

A goal cannot be scored directly from a throw-in.

8. The Goalkeeper’s Rules

• The goalkeeper can use their hands only inside the penalty area.

• They cannot pick up the ball if it was deliberately passed to them by a teammate’s foot.

• They must release the ball within six seconds after catching it.

• The goalkeeper can use their hands only inside the penalty area.

• They cannot pick up the ball if it was deliberately passed to them by a teammate’s foot.

• They must release the ball within six seconds after catching it.

Advantage Rule

• If a team is fouled but still has an opportunity to advance and attack, the referee may let play continue instead of stopping for a free kick.

Handball Rule

• A handball is called when a player deliberately touches the ball with their hand or arm.

• Accidental handballs are not always penalized unless they lead to a goal or goal-scoring opportunity.

Substitutions

• The number of substitutions allowed varies by league.

• Players must leave the field at the nearest boundary when substituted.