Laws of the Game
A quick free kick does not always earn a retake when an opponent is nearby
A quick free kick can be intercepted by a nearby opponent without a retake. Learn how IFAB distinguishes interception from deliberately blocking the restart.
FROM THE TOUCHLINE
free kicks
Reading the Match
What the Raised Arm Means at an Indirect Free Kick
Read the referee’s indirect-free-kick signal and follow the next touch before deciding whether a goal can count.
Reading the Match
A Free-Kick Wall Has More Than One Job
Read a defensive free-kick wall by watching the goalkeeper, the likely ball route and the players assigned to the next phase.
Reading the Match
Playing Advantage Is Different From Taking a Quick Free Kick
Distinguish continuous play under advantage from a quick restart after a whistle, using the referee’s decision and the ball’s status as your guide.