Basic Principle
When a foul is committed, the referee considers:
• Would stopping play benefit the fouling team?
• Does the fouled team have a promising attack?
• Can the advantage be realized quickly?
If yes, the referee signals "play on" with their arms.
How It Works
1. Foul is committed 2. Referee evaluates the situation 3. If advantage exists, signals with both arms forward 4. Play continues 5. If advantage doesn't materialize within a few seconds, referee can bring play back
Advantage and Cards
Playing advantage doesn't mean the foul is ignored:
• Referee can still show cards at the next stoppage
• Yellow cards are common after advantage
• Red cards can also be given after the ball goes out of play
When Advantage Isn't Played
Advantage is rarely given for:
• Violent conduct
• Serious foul play in certain situations
• Fouls near the fouling team's goal
• Second yellow card offenses
The "Short" Advantage
If advantage doesn't develop:
• Referee can stop play within 2-3 seconds
• Awards the original free kick
• This is called "bringing it back"