Obstruction (Impeding)
A player cannot use their body to block an opponent from reaching the ball when not within playing distance. This is called impeding and results in an indirect free kick.
The full rule
Impeding the progress of an opponent means moving into their path to block them without playing the ball, or using the body as an obstacle. It is different from a shoulder charge or shielding the ball, which are legal. Shielding is permitted when the ball is within playing distance — a player can legally use their body to protect the ball. But once the ball is out of reach, blocking an opponent becomes impeding and is punished with an indirect free kick. No physical contact is necessary.
Key points
- ✓Impeding results in an indirect free kick
- ✓No contact required — blocking the path is enough
- ✓Shielding is legal when the ball is within playing distance
- ✓Moving into an opponent's path without playing the ball is impeding
- ✓Different from a fair shoulder charge which involves contact for the ball
Scenarios
Player shields ball out of play
A player lets the ball roll out for a goal kick and then blocks the opponent from retrieving it quickly by standing in their way.
Defender legally shields ball to corner
A defender reaches the ball first near the corner flag and uses their body to hold off the attacker while keeping the ball in play.