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Rules & referee learning

Goal kick or corner: who touched it last?

When the ball wholly crosses a goal line without a goal, a last touch by an attacker normally leads to a goal kick. A last touch by a defender normally leads to a corner.

By ToopTime · Updated 2026-09-21U6–U8 · U9–U10 · U11–U12 · U13+
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At a glance
SourceIFAB Laws of the Game
ScopeGeneral rule explanation; youth adaptations may differ
Before a matchCheck the competition’s adopted edition and handbook

Teach it with a simple activity

Put two colored cones beside a goal-line diagram to represent the teams. Roll the ball out after touching one color and ask players to identify the restart.

A situation to discuss

A shot hits a defender and goes over the defender’s goal line outside the goal. The attacking team receives a corner.

Avoid this misunderstanding

The direction the ball was traveling does not replace the question of which team touched it last.

Confirm your local version

Ask your league which rulebook applies this season and where its modifications are published. Keep that document with your match notes. When a match decision is disputed, follow the competition’s process and use qualified referee education for a detailed interpretation.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Know the general rule. Confirm the version your team plays.

Sources & further reading

IFAB: the goal kick

Rule explanations are introductory. Confirm your competition’s adopted Laws and youth modifications.

Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.

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