A goal kick is awarded when the ball crosses the goal line (not in the goal) and was last touched by an attacking player.
• Ball placed anywhere in the goal area (6-yard box)
• Ball must be stationary
• Ball is in play once it is kicked and clearly moves
• Any player can take the goal kick (usually the goalkeeper)
Basic Rules
• Ball placed anywhere in the goal area (6-yard box)
• Ball must be stationary
• Ball is in play once it is kicked and clearly moves
• Any player can take the goal kick (usually the goalkeeper)
Recent Rule Changes (2019)
The ball no longer needs to leave the penalty area before being touched:
• Old rule: Ball had to leave the 18-yard box first
• New rule: Ball is in play immediately when kicked
• Teammates can now receive the ball inside the penalty area
Cannot Score Own Goal
You cannot score an own goal directly from a goal kick. If the ball goes directly into your own goal, a corner kick is awarded to the opponents.
Offside Rule
Players cannot be offside from a goal kick:
• Even if standing in an offside position
• Same exemption as throw-ins and corner kicks
Tactical Use
Teams often use goal kicks to:
• Start buildup play from the back
• Play long balls to forwards
• Quickly restart and catch opponents off guard