When is a direct or indirect free kick given, and when is a penalty awarded? A full guide to football's set pieces.
Set pieces are golden scoring chances, chief among them the free kick and the penalty. Each has rules that decide when it's given and how it's taken.
The direct free kick
Awarded for a clear foul (tripping, pushing, handball). A goal can be scored directly without another player touching it. Famous defensive walls are set in front of the goal against it.
The indirect free kick
Awarded for less serious offences (offside, dangerous play, obstructing the keeper). A goal doesn't count unless a second player touches the ball before it enters the net.
The penalty kick
Awarded when an offence that warrants a direct free kick is committed inside the penalty area. It's taken from the spot (11 metres) against the keeper alone, and is one of the highest-scoring chances in football.
Why are set pieces decisive?
Because they produce a large share of goals, especially in tight matches. A team that masters them holds a game-changing weapon. Follow the best set-piece goals on Shahid Live.
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