A defensive midfielder moves into the attacker’s path to block their way when the ball is not within playing distance of either player (no contact is made). After that, the attacker tries to win a position and pushes the midfielder in a reckless manner. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The referee stops play and awards an indirect free kick against the midfielder’s team for impeding the progress of an opponent without contact. This offence is penalised because it occurred before the attacker's offence. Nevertheless, the attacker is cautioned (yellow card) for the reckless push.