A defender (Team A) and an attacker (Team B) challenge for the ball without committing a foul. After the attacker gains possession/control of the ball, the defender deliberately kicks the opponent’s leg with excessive force when the ball is no longer within playing distance. What is the correct decision if the offence occurs outside the penalty area?

Question

Accepted Answer

The referee stops play, awards a direct free kick to Team B, and sends off the defender. The red card is for ‘violent conduct’, not ‘serious foul play’, because the offender’s action was not part of a challenge for the ball.