Ice hockey / Rule 78
Goals and disallowed goals
IIHF · 2026/27In short
When the puck counts as a goal.
Across the line
The puck must completely cross the goal line between the posts and below the crossbar under legal conditions. A lawful deflection off an attacker’s body or skate can count; the goal frame’s position also matters.
Invalid goals
A distinct kicking motion, deliberately batting the puck into the net, high-stick contact above the crossbar or goalkeeper interference can invalidate a goal. A direct deflection into the net off an official does not count.
Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Independent topic summaries of the supplied IIHF Rule Book 2026/27, version 1.0, June 2026. This is not the NHL rulebook or a complete reproduction. Women’s, junior and pilot provisions are identified separately; competition regulations govern applicable formats. References use PDF pages.
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