For some time now, the theory that the goalkeeper cannot be touched inside the penalty area has been widespread and internalized.
It is very common to hear how this is claimed with complete confidence among footballers, coaches, fans and even in the sports press.
But nothing could be further from the truth, as we will see below, this statement is a myth that, by repeating it, has become a belief in the world of football.
There has been much debate recently over the action between Gianluigi Donnarumma and Karim Benzema in the Champions League match between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, where there are various opinions on whether it was a foul or not.
- Watch action minute 2:26: SUMMARY – REAL MADRID 3-1 PSG
What does the regulation say?
If we review the » FIFA Rules of the Game » we find that only the one included in rule 12 is highlighted as a differential foul on the goalkeeper :
«An indirect free kick shall be awarded if, in the opinion of the referee, a player prevents the goalkeeper from taking the ball out with his hands .» – Fouls and inaccuracies (Page 39)
Within this rule, it is specified ( Infractions on the goalkeeper):
- Preventing the goalkeeper from taking the ball out with his hands constitutes an infringement.
- An indirect free kick shall be awarded if the player hits or attempts to hit the ball when the goalkeeper attempts to clear the ball.
- The act of limiting the goalkeeper’s radius of action by trying to prevent his movements, for example, during a corner kick.
Conclusion
We see that there is no fault against the goalkeeper for pressing him or disputing the ball as long as the ball is in play.
In these situations, in the small area the goalkeeper is like any other player (with the only difference that, obviously, he can touch the ball with his hands).
Keep the regulations in mind in other situations that may confuse you as well.
The goalkeeper is only considered to be in possession of the ball:
- While the ball is in your hands or between your hand and any surface (e.g., the floor, your own body).
- While holding the ball in your outstretched open hand.
- While bouncing the ball on the ground or throwing it into the air.
«When the goalkeeper controls the ball with his hands, no opponent can attack him.»
It is important that you know the regulations in order to be able to prevent and make informed decisions in these types of situations.
To reflect on…
Having said all this, we now move on to another question: Is Benzema’s charge on Donnaruma legal or illegal?
