Scoring & Restarts (Kickoff, Throw-ins)+50 
Scoring in soccer occurs when the entire ball crosses the opponent’s goal line between the goalposts and beneath the crossbar, resulting in a goal. Restarts are methods used to resume play after stoppages. A kickoff is used to start each half and after a goal is scored, with one team passing the ball from the center circle. Throw-ins occur when the ball goes out of bounds over the sideline, allowing the opposing team to throw the ball back into play.
Scoring & Restarts (Kickoff, Throw-ins)+50
Scoring in soccer occurs when the entire ball crosses the opponent’s goal line between the goalposts and beneath the crossbar, resulting in a goal. Restarts are methods used to resume play after stoppages. A kickoff is used to start each half and after a goal is scored, with one team passing the ball from the center circle. Throw-ins occur when the ball goes out of bounds over the sideline, allowing the opposing team to throw the ball back into play.
💡 Key Takeaways
- Understand the goal rule: the ball must fully cross the goal line between the posts and beneath the crossbar.
- Restarts resume play after stoppages and include kickoff and throw-in methods.
- Kickoffs are used to start each half and restart play after a goal, taken from the center spot.
- Throw-ins restart play when the ball crosses the touchline; the throw-in goes to the opposite team of the last player to touch the ball.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a goal in soccer?
A goal is scored when the entire ball crosses the opponent’s goal line between the posts and beneath the crossbar.
When is a kickoff used and how is it taken?
Kickoffs start each half and restart play after a goal. The ball is placed on the center mark and kicked forward; opponents must stay at least 10 yards away until in play.
What is a throw-in and how is it taken?
A throw-in is awarded when the ball completely crosses the sideline. It goes to the opposite team of the last player to touch the ball. It’s taken from the spot where it left the field, from over the head with both hands, and with both feet on the ground.
What is the difference between a goal kick and a corner kick?
A goal kick restarts play for the defending team after the ball last touched the attackers and crossed the goal line. A corner kick restarts play for the attacking team after the ball last touched the defenders and crossed the goal line, taken from the relevant corner arc.