While challenging an opponent for the ball in the middle of the field, a player fails to touch the ball and, as a result, their high foot makes contact with the opponent’s face. What is the correct decision?

THE DECISION

As there is contact with the opponent, the referee awards a direct free kick and takes appropriate disciplinary action: * caution (yellow card) if the challenge was reckless * sending-off (red card) if the player endangered the safety of the opponent/used excessive force The opponent can be assessed and treated on the field of play and may remain if able to continue.