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READY REF

LAW 12 · Fouls and Misconduct · 2026/27

The goalkeeper is holding the ball in the outstretched open hand and an opposing player attempts to kick the ball. What are the restart and the sanction?

See Decision

THE DECISION

A goalkeeper cannot be challenged by an opponent when in control of the ball with the hand(s). Play restarts with an indirect free kick (no contact) or a direct free kick (contact) – the offence is a caution (yellow card, YC) if it stops a promising attack or the challenge is reckless.

Read official Law 12 ↗