When a match is still tied after extra time, IFAB Law 10.3 provides the solution: the penalty shootout. This dramatic finale ensures every game produces a winner, but it also follows a very specific process to keep things fair.
Only players who are on the field at the end of extra time may take part. If one team has fewer players because of red cards or injuries, the other team must reduce to equate so both sides have the same number of eligible kickers. This way, no team gains an advantage in the order of shooters.
The procedure begins with the referee selecting the goal and a coin toss deciding which team shoots first. Each side alternates shots from the penalty mark, taking five kicks each. If the score is still level, the contest continues into sudden death, where teams trade one kick at a time until a winner emerges.
Every kick is also bound by Law 14 (the penalty kick). The ball must be placed on the penalty mark, the goalkeeper must stay on the goal line until the kick is taken, and all other players must remain outside the penalty area until the ball is struck. Any infringements are handled by the referee, which may result in retakes or cautions.
Law 12 – Understanding Persistent Offences: When It’s Time for a Card
In soccer, one of the less friendly yet important concepts referees must manage is that of persistent offences. Under Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct of the Laws of the Game, repeated small offences (even if each by itself might seem minor) can accumulate to the point that a caution/yellow card is warranted.
What the Law Says
According to Law 12, one of the cautionable offences is “persistent offences (no specific number or pattern of offences constitutes ‘persistent’)”. This means that there is no fixed threshold like “three fouls” or “five infringements” after which a yellow card automatically must be shown. The key is the pattern or continuing nature of the infringements.
Why It Matters
Persistent offences matter for a few reasons:
- They show a player is ignoring the referee’s authority or repeatedly infringing the Laws, which undermines fair play.
- Allowing such behavior unchecked can demean the standard of the match, lead to frustration, escalation of fouls, and diminish control of the game.
- By issuing a caution for persistent offences, referees preserve the discipline and flow of play.
Recognizing the Signs
Though the Laws do not provide a numeric formula, here are some practical red flags that a referee or match official might watch for:
- A player repeatedly commits fouls (tackles, trips, disrupts play) shortly after being admonished or warned.
- A player continually delays restarts, fouls the same opponent or group of opponents, or continually ignores the referee’s instructions.
- The pattern is such that repeated behavior is disrupting play or undermining the discipline of the match.
Application: When to Show a Yellow Card
Because there is no fixed number, the decision rests on the referee’s judgement of the continuity and impact. The referee should consider:
- Has the player already committed multiple infringements in a short span or against one opponent?
- Has the player been warned (verbally) previously?
- Does the behavior show disregard for the Laws or competitive fairness?
- Is the repeated offence impairing the flow of play or giving an unfair advantage?
If the answer is “yes”, then a caution is appropriate: the yellow card serves not just as punishment, but also as a deterrent against further misconduct.
Examples
- A midfielder repeatedly late-tackles the same winger, each time elbowing, tripping, or obstructing, even after a warning. That constitutes a pattern of persistent offences and triggers a caution.
- A defender constantly kicks away the ball to delay play after being substituted, despite prior warnings. The cumulative nature justifies a yellow card.
- On the other hand: A single careless tackle might not merit a card under persistent offence—but if the same player does it again and again, the referee must act.
Key Points for Referees & Players
- Referees: remain alert to patterns, not just one-off incidents. Use your notebook and monitor behavior. Ensure fairness and control by applying the Law when repetitive fouls or abuse occur.
- Players: Understand that even “minor” fouls can lead to a caution if you keep repeating them. One slip might be forgiven but repeating it draws disciplinary action.
- Coaches & Teams: Be aware that one player’s repeated misconduct can affect the team’s organization and risk being reduced by a caution. Encourage discipline and respect the match official.
Conclusion
Persistent offences under Law 12 are a vital tool in a referee’s arsenal to maintain the integrity, fairness, and flow of the game. While each individual infringement may look innocent in isolation, the accumulation of behavior undermines the spirit of competition and requires discipline. Recognizing that “persistence” does not require a particular count but a pattern of offending is key—for referees making decisions, players moderating behavior, and teams enforcing standards.
When you see a yellow card issued for repeated minor fouls or delays, you’re witnessing the application of this important but often misunderstood principle.
