SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/soc-throw-in-countdown

A team stalls before taking a throw-in. After the referee's five-second countdown ends, what happens?

The throw-in goes to the other team.

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  1. A yellow card only
  2. The throw-in is retaken
  3. The throw-in goes to the other team ✔

Why: If a player unfairly delays a throw-in, the referee signals a five-second countdown with a raised hand. If the throw is not taken by then, it is awarded to the opposing team.

Huh, didn't know that: Goal kicks have the same countdown, but stalling there gives the other team a corner kick.

The dad joke
Why did the throw-in start counting? It wanted to make every second count.
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References

Answer: The throw-in goes to the other team. If a player unfairly delays a throw-in, the referee signals a five-second countdown with a raised hand. If the throw is not taken by then, it is awarded to the opposing team.

  1. IFAB Laws of the Game 2026/27, Law 15 The Throw-in www.theifab.com/laws/latest/the-throw-in
    if the throw-in has not been taken by the end of the five seconds, it is awarded to the opposing team
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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Test yourself in the game

Sports & FitnessA player receives the ball straight from a throw-in while behind every defender. Is that offside?Sports & FitnessWhat happens if a goalkeeper holds the ball in their hands for more than eight seconds?Sports & FitnessWhich of these is required for a legal throw-in?

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