: Awarded when the defending team kicks the ball over their own goal line. 3. Fouls and Misconduct Referees use cards to manage discipline:
: Starts the game or restarts it after a goal. All players must be in their own half, and opponents must stay at least 10 yards away from the center mark. soccer rules
: Kicking, tripping, pushing, or "handball" (deliberately touching the ball with the hand or arm). 4. Major 2025/2026 Rule Changes The Basic Rules of Soccer: A Complete Guide : Awarded when the defending team kicks the
Soccer (football) is governed by the . The objective is simple: get the ball completely across the opponent’s goal line using any part of the body except the hands and arms. 1. Basic Game Structure All players must be in their own half,
: Used for serious foul play or receiving two yellow cards; the player is sent off and cannot be replaced.
: Two 45-minute halves, totaling 90 minutes. Referees add "stoppage time" at the end of each half to account for delays (fouls, injuries, substitutions).
: Fields are typically 100–130 yards long and 50–100 yards wide. For international matches, dimensions are tighter: 110–120 yards long by 70–80 yards wide. 2. Restarts and In-Play Rules