The Goal Kick

Award and direct goals

Award a goal kick when the whole ball crosses the goal line after an attacker last touched it and no goal is scored, alongside the special cases in other Laws. It may score directly against opponents. A kick directly into the kicker's own goal gives a corner.

1. Procedure

A defending player kicks the stationary ball from anywhere in the goal area. It is live when kicked and clearly moving. Opponents remain outside the penalty area until then.

2. Delay and other offences

For unfair delay the referee whistles and visibly counts down five seconds. Failure to take the kick in that time gives the opponents a corner. Caution the offender only for excessive further delay after that award; see the countdown protocol.

A second touch before another player gives an indirect free kick. A handball second touch gives a direct free kick or penalty in the kicker's own area, except a goalkeeper's handling there gives an indirect free kick.

Play can continue if opponents have not had time to leave the area. Retake if an opponent present early, or entering early, touches or challenges for the ball before it is live.

If a player enters early and fouls or is fouled before the ball is live, retake and apply any warranted caution or dismissal. Other offences require a retake.