Direct Free Kick
Rules & RegulationsA free kick from which a goal can be scored directly against the offending team without the ball touching another player.
Related Terms in Rules & Regulations
Penalty Shootout
A tie-breaking method used in knockout games where teams take turns taking penalty kicks.
Handball
A foul committed when a player (other than the GK in the box) touches the ball with their arm or hand.
Corner Kick
A method of restarting play when the ball has gone out of bounds over the goal line (but not into the goal) last touched by a defender.
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The U.S. Soccer Federation has officially entered a new strategic relationship with US Club Soccer. This isn't just a press release; it is a move that could fundamentally change how the back-end of youth soccer operates.
The U.S. Girls Youth Soccer Pyramid: A Parent's Guide to League Tiers in 2025/2026
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Guide to the New MLS Next Divisions: MLS Next Homegrown and MLS Next Academy Divisions Explained
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A clear breakdown of the different divisions within MLS NEXT, explaining the homegrown player rule and the academy structure.