An attacker (Team A) runs with the ball into the opponents’ penalty area. A defender (Team B) challenges the attacker and gains possession of the ball without committing any offence. After that, the defender tries to shield the ball (which is within playing distance), extends their arms and strikes the attacker on the face with the elbow. What is the correct decision?

Question

Accepted Answer

The referee awards a penalty kick to Team A. The sanction depends on the severity of the offence. If the defender:
* was guilty of acting in a reckless manner – caution (yellow card)
* was guilty of violent conduct – sending-off (red card)