Soccer Rules Practice Exam

What is the appropriate restart if a goalkeeper catches the ball directly from a throw-in taken by a teammate?

1. Direct free kick for the opposing team

2. Indirect free kick for the opposing team

3. Retake the throw-in

4. Goal kick for the opposing team

The correct answer is: Indirect free kick for the opposing team

When a goalkeeper catches the ball directly from a throw-in taken by a teammate, the appropriate restart is an indirect free kick for the opposing team. This occurs because the rules of soccer specify that a player cannot directly score from a throw-in. Instead, the throw-in is meant to restart play, and if a goalkeeper catches it, it is considered an infringement since the ball should not be in play in that manner. As a result, the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick at the spot where the goalkeeper caught the ball. Understanding this rule helps maintain the flow and fairness of the game, as it prevents players from taking advantage of situations where they might incorrectly use a throw-in as a direct scoring opportunity. While the scenarios involving a retake of the throw-in or a direct free kick are relevant in other contexts, they do not apply in this situation as outlined by the rules.