SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/soc-keeper-eight-seconds

What happens if a goalkeeper holds the ball in their hands for more than eight seconds?

The other team gets a corner kick.

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  1. An indirect free kick
  2. A yellow card only
  3. A corner kick ✔

Why: A corner kick is awarded if a goalkeeper controls the ball with the hands for more than eight seconds. The referee counts down the last five seconds with a raised hand.

Huh, didn't know that: An opponent may not challenge a goalkeeper who has the ball under control in their hands.

The dad joke
Why did the goalkeeper start counting? Someone told him time was on his side, but only for eight seconds.
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References

Answer: A corner kick. A corner kick is awarded if a goalkeeper controls the ball with the hands for more than eight seconds. The referee counts down the last five seconds with a raised hand.

  1. IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 12 Fouls and Misconduct www.theifab.com/laws/latest/fouls-and-misconduct
    controls the ball with their hand(s)/arm(s) for more than eight seconds before releasing it
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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