MATCH
READY REF

LAW 12 · Fouls and Misconduct · 2026/27

A substitute kicks one of the additional balls onto the field of play. This interference stops a promising attack as the additional ball hits the match ball and the opposing team loses possession. What is the referee’s decision?

See Decision

THE DECISION

Play is stopped and restarted with a direct free kick (or a penalty kick) where the additional ball struck the match ball. The substitute is cautioned (yellow card).

Read official Law 12 ↗