Soccer Rules Practice Exam

What is the consequence of a deliberate hand ball in soccer?

1. Indirect free kick

2. Penalty kick

3. Red card

4. Throw-in for the opposing team

The correct answer is: Red card

A deliberate handball in soccer results in a red card being shown to the offending player. A red card signifies a serious offense, and the player must leave the field immediately and cannot be replaced, leaving their team with one player less for the remainder of the match. This punishment is given because deliberately handling the ball goes against the fundamental principle of fair play in soccer. The other options are not the consequence of a deliberate handball: an indirect free kick is awarded for lesser offenses, a penalty kick is awarded for fouls committed inside the penalty area, and a throw-in is taken if the ball goes out of play over the touchlines.