SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/soc-goalkeeper-hands-own-box

Which player may handle the ball inside their own penalty area?

The goalkeeper, and only inside their own penalty area.

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  1. Any defender
  2. The goalkeeper ✔
  3. The team captain

Why: Handling the ball is a foul for every player, with one exception: the goalkeeper inside their own penalty area. Outside it, the keeper follows the same rules as everyone else.

Huh, didn't know that: A goalkeeper who handles the ball in their area when not allowed gives away an indirect free kick, not a penalty.

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Why are goalkeepers good at parties? They know how to handle things.
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References

Answer: The goalkeeper. Handling the ball is a foul for every player, with one exception: the goalkeeper inside their own penalty area. Outside it, the keeper follows the same rules as everyone else.

  1. IFAB Laws of the Game (current edition), Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct www.theifab.com/laws/latest/fouls-and-misconduct
    a handball offence (except for the goalkeeper within their penalty area)
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. IFAB Laws of the Game (current edition), Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct www.theifab.com/laws/latest/fouls-and-misconduct
    The goalkeeper has the same restrictions on handling the ball as any other player outside the penalty area
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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