An attacker is in an offside position at the moment their team-mate takes a free kick. While the ball is in the air, the attacker moves towards the opposing goalkeeper and jumps in front of them, attempting to head the ball. Although the attacker does not touch the ball, their action clearly impacts on the goalkeeper, who can only parry the ball with one hand and is unable to catch it. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The attacker who was in an offside position interferes with the goalkeeper by clearly attempting to play the ball and therefore has an impact on the opponent. This is an offside offence, so the referee awards an indirect free kick to the goalkeeper’s team.