Soccer Goalkeeper and Back Pass Rules: Legal or Not?

In the world of soccer, the rules governing the goalkeeper and their handling of the ball are often a subject of debate. One specific scenario that frequently arises is whether a goalkeeper can handle the ball if a defender passes it back to them after they have touched it with their feet. This article will explore the nuances of this rule, providing clarity on when and how a goalkeeper can legally handle the ball in such situations.

Understanding the Rules

The Laws of the Game, as outlined by FIFA, have very specific rules regarding a goalkeeper's handling of the ball. According to Law 12, specifically Law 12.2, an indirect free kick is awarded if a goalkeeper inside their penalty area commits any of the following offences: 'it has been deliberately kicked to the goalkeeper by a team-mate.'

Let's break down what this means in practical terms. If a defender deliberately passes the ball to the goalkeeper with their feet, the goalkeeper is not allowed to handle the ball with their hands. Instead, they must play the ball with their feet, thereby gaining possession.

Clarifying the Scenarios

But it's not always a straightforward rule. In some cases, the goalkeeper can handle the ball after touching it with their feet. This depends on certain specific situations:

If a player, either a defender or teammate, passes the ball to the goalkeeper with anything from the knees and up to the head (e.g., chesting or heading the ball). In such cases, the goalkeeper is allowed to handle the ball.

When the pass is not intentional, such as in a failed clearance attempt. The goalkeeper can play the ball with their feet, then handle it.

If the ball is touched by an opponent before it reaches the goalkeeper. This allows the goalkeeper the flexibility to handle the ball.

During a fair play situation where the referee throws the ball back to the goalkeeper or stops the game. The goalkeeper can handle the ball in this instance.

However, there are also scenarios where the goalkeeper is not allowed to handle the ball after touching it with their feet:

After a throw-in from a teammate. Handling the ball in this situation is a violation and results in an indirect free kick for the opposing team.

When a player lobs the ball up to their own head and then heads it back to the goalkeeper, or lays the ball on the ground and rolls it back with their head. This is considered the same as a deliberate play with the foot and results in an indirect free kick.

Black-Letter Law: Law 12.2 Indirect Free Kick

The rules are further clarified in Law 12.2 of the Laws of the Game. It states: 'An indirect free kick is awarded if a goalkeeper inside their penalty area commits any of the following offences: 'it has been deliberately kicked to the goalkeeper by a team-mate.'

It is important to note that there is a specific exception where the goalkeeper is allowed to handle the ball: 'unless it is the goalkeeper who has deliberately kicked the ball to themselves.'

This means that the goalkeeper can stop and touch the ball as many times as they want with their feet before picking it up, provided they follow the above-mentioned guidelines. This flexibility is designed to enable the goalkeeper to manage the ball effectively while maintaining the integrity of the game.

Conclusion

The rules regarding a goalkeeper and a back pass in soccer are complex but ultimately designed to ensure fair play and fair advantage. By understanding these rules, teams can make informed decisions on the pitch, and officials can ensure that the game is played according to the Laws of the Game.

I hope this detailed explanation clarifies any confusion you might have had about this specific rule. If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to reach out.