Soccer Rules Practice Exam 2026 – Your All-in-One Guide to Mastering the Game Rules!

A free kick is considered indirect when it is awarded for less serious offenses. In soccer, an indirect free kick allows the ball to be played by another player before a goal can be scored, meaning that the kick must first touch another player before entering the goal. This type of free kick is commonly given for infractions like a player being offside or committing a minor foul such as holding or obstruction.

In contrast, direct free kicks are awarded for more serious fouls and allow a player to take a shot directly at the goal. The context of the free kick's classification is crucial for understanding how the game is played and officiated. Knowing the difference between indirect and direct free kicks helps players and coaches recognize situations in the game that can affect strategy and gameplay.