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LAW 12 · Fouls and Misconduct · 2026/27

A goalkeeper easily catches a weak shot and then falls to the ground. The goalkeeper stays there for a few seconds (without being challenged by any opponent) and then stands up to release the ball. What is the referee’s decision?

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THE DECISION

The eight seconds started when the goalkeeper had control of the ball, not when the goalkeeper stood up. If the referee judged that controlling the ball with the hands/arms took longer than the time limit, the opposing team is awarded a corner kick.

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