Soccer Rules Practice Exam

What action should a referee take if a player pushes an opponent to gain possession of the ball?

1. Goal kick for the opposing team

2. Yellow card for the player

3. No action taken

4. Indirect free kick for the opposing team

The correct answer is: Yellow card for the player

When a player pushes an opponent to gain possession of the ball in soccer, it is considered a foul. The correct action for the referee to take in this situation is to issue a yellow card to the player who committed the offense. A yellow card is shown to caution a player for unsporting behavior, and pushing an opponent is a clear example of unsporting behavior on the field. This serves as a warning to the player that their actions are not acceptable and may result in further disciplinary action if repeated. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the foul committed by the player. A goal kick, no action taken, or an indirect free kick for the opposing team would not be appropriate responses when a player pushes an opponent to gain possession of the ball.