Goal Kick

A goal kick is a method of restarting play in soccer (football) that occurs when the ball goes out of play over the goal line, last touched by an attacking player. It is awarded to the defending team and is taken from within the goal area, specifically from the six-yard box. The ball must be stationary when kicked, and the player taking the goal kick must not touch the ball again until it has left the penalty area. Other players must be outside the penalty area until the ball is in play. Goal kicks are used to reintroduce the ball into the game, allowing the defending team an opportunity to clear the ball or to initiate an attack.