What is an indirect kick in soccer?
It’s a question that often comes up among soccer fans and new players alike.
But what exactly is an indirect kick, and what sets it apart from a direct free kick?
Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding the Indirect Free Kick
An indirect free kick in soccer is a type of restart where the ball must touch another player before a goal can be scored.
Unlike a direct free kick, where the ball can be kicked directly into the goal, the indirect free kick requires a bit more thought, especially if one has been within shooting distance.
This rule is designed to reduce the likelihood of easy goals and to encourage more strategic plays.
Offenses Leading to an Indirect Free Kick
So, which offenses result in an indirect free kick? Typically they are awarded for less serious matters.
There are several situations where an indirect free kick is awarded.
These include:
- Offside
- Obstruction
- Impeding the progress of an opponent
- Preventing the goalkeeper from kicking the ball from their hands
- Goalkeeper infractions, such as holding the ball for longer than allowed
The eagle eyed among you will realize that some of these offenses can only be committed in the opposing teams half and therefore not in shooting distance.
Offside and preventing the goalkeeper from releasing the ball are the two offenses in question so if they are awarded, it wouldn’t make much difference if they were direct or indirect anyway!
A goalkeeper holding on for the ball for too long can only happen within the penalty box and this would result in an indirect free kick (not a penalty) being awarded in the box. Read on a little further for more details on this.
Difference Between a Direct and Indirect Free Kick
It’s crucial to understand the difference between a direct and an indirect free kick.
While both are awarded for various fouls and infractions, their execution varies significantly.
A direct free kick allows the player to score a goal directly from the kick without needing another player to touch the ball.
David Beckham was a master at scoring from direct free kicks because of his ability to strike a dead ball with insane curl and accuracy.
In contrast, an indirect free kick requires that the ball touch another player before a goal can be scored.
If an indirect free kick has been awarded within shooting distance, the attacking team has a few options when trying to score.
Techniques for Scoring from an Indirect Free Kick
Scoring from an indirect free kick requires a bit of creativity and teamwork.
One common technique is for one player to tap the ball slightly to another player, who then takes a shot on goal.
This approach ensures that the ball meets the requirement of touching another player before a goal is attempted.
Teams often practice set plays specifically designed for indirect free kicks, utilizing decoys and precise movements to confuse the defense and create scoring opportunities.
Indirect Free Kick in the Penalty Box
Awarding an Indirect Free Kick in the Penalty Box
The penalty box is a high-stakes area on the soccer field, and although the awarding of an indirect free kick within this zone is unusual, it can be a game-changer.
Indirect free kicks in the penalty box are usually awarded for less severe infractions, such as a goalkeeper handling a back pass from a teammate.
Many fans wrongly assume that because a free kick has been given inside the box a penalty should be awarded. However, a penalty will only be awarded if the offense would result in a direct free kick.
When an attacking team gets an indirect free kick in the penalty box, it’s taken from the spot where the infraction occurred. Even if this is just 3 or 4 yards from the goal!
What follows is chaotic and highly exciting…
The defending team will place a wall of at least seven or eight players on the goal line with the goalkeeper in front. The defensive wall only has to retreat as far as the goal line, even if this is less than the usual 10 yards.
Because the attacking team cannot score directly from the indirect free kick a lay off is needed before a shot can be taken. In the split second of the lay off, the defending players will attempt to quickly close down the ball and prevent a shot being taken.
In my experience the majority of indirect free kicks given in the box do result in a goal but not as many as a penalty
Role of the Referee in Soccer
The referee plays a crucial role in managing the game and enforcing the rules.
In the case of an indirect free kick, the referee ensures that the ball is placed correctly and that all players are adhering to the rules.
Vanishing foam can be used by the referee to mark the placement of the ball and where the defensive wall should be placed. This helps referees ensure players don’t try and take an unfair advantage whilst their back is turned.
The referee also uses specific signals to indicate an indirect free kick, raising one arm straight up in the air until the ball is kicked and touches another player.
This signal helps players, coaches, and fans understand the type of free kick being awarded.
Related Rules Around Indirect Free Kicks
Several rules govern the execution of an indirect free kick.
For example, the defensive wall must be at least 10 yards away from the ball.
This distance gives the attacking team enough space to execute their play.
Additionally, the ball must be stationary when the kick is taken, and it must be kicked within a reasonable time frame after the referee’s signal.
Conclusion
From understanding what an indirect free kick is to recognizing the offenses that lead to it, there’s a lot to grasp about this aspect of soccer.
This article has also highlighted the differences between a direct and an indirect free kick.
So next time you watch a match and see the referee raise their arm for a free kick, you’ll know it’s an Indirect Free Kick.
FAQs
Can a player shoot from an indirect free kick?
No, a player cannot score from an indirect free kick. The ball must touch at least one other player before a goal can be counted. In theory a player could shoot from an indirect free kick and hope that it takes a deflection, but this is very rare.
Where does the indirect free kick take place after an offside foul in football?
The defending team is awarded an indirect free kick from where the offending player became actively involved in the play.
Is a high foot an indirect free kick?
If the high foot does not make contact with another player it is an indirect free kick. If the high foot does make contact then a direct free kick is required.
Is a back pass an indirect free kick?
Yes, the rules state that an indirect free kick is awarded if a goalkeeper picks the ball up from a back pass. The kick is taken from the place where the goalkeeper collected the ball which has to be inside the penalty box.
