Handling the Ball
Goalkeepers CAN handle the ball when:
• Inside their own penalty area
• The ball wasn't deliberately kicked to them by a teammate
• The ball wasn't thrown to them from a teammate's throw-in
Goalkeepers CANNOT handle:
• Outside the penalty area
• Back-passes from teammates (feet)
• Throw-ins from teammates
The Back-Pass Rule
If a teammate deliberately kicks the ball to the keeper:
• The keeper cannot pick it up
• They must play with their feet
• Violation = indirect free kick from where they touched it
Six-Second Rule
Once the goalkeeper has the ball in their hands:
• They must release it within 6 seconds
• This is rarely enforced strictly
• Referee can award indirect free kick for violation
Coming Off the Line (Penalties)
During penalty kicks:
• One foot must be touching or behind the goal line
• Can move side-to-side on the line
• Cannot come forward until the ball is kicked
Goalkeeper Clothing
Must wear colors distinguishing them from:
• Other players
• Referees
• Match officials