The Beautiful Game Begins

Whether it’s a World Cup final, Champion’s League match, or a local tournament, each one begins from the same spot. They all perform the same fundamental action that indicates that for the next hour or two, only what happens on the pitch matter. The soccer kick is arguably the most standardized procedure in the sport. Though simple in appearance, it’s governed by a detailed set of rules outlined in the official Laws of the Game. 

The rules written dictate how to start a football game, players dos and don'ts, and permissible kickoff strategy. The referee blows his whistle and instantly, both viewers and players, are transported to another realm. Here, the only thing that matters is the beautiful game of football.

What Is a Soccer Kickoff?

Although people know that this is where the match begins or resumes, they do not know much more about it. To put it simply, it is a method used to start a match. Additionally, it is also performed to resume play after halftime, and restart the game after a goal is scored. Though it appears simple to the viewer, it holds the potential for setting the tone and momentum of the match. According to the Laws of the Game, a kickoff must take place at the center spot. Additionally, all the players must be positioned in their designated halves.

Kickoffs serve several purposes:

• Start of the match
• Restart after halftime
• Restart after each goal
• Start of extra time (when applicable)

Soccer Kickoff Rules: What the Laws Say

Even though it appears a simple process, understanding how a game starts is important for players and coaches. Moreover, even the slightest error can result in a retake or an immediate turnover. Not only does that mean the team loses possession of the ball, but sets the wrong tone for the match. That’s why the following rules must be followed with tremendous care.

1.  All players must remain in their own half: Although there is room for strategically placing the players in certain positions, they can’t cross the halfway line. At least not until the ball is in play post kickoff.

2. Opponents must stay at least 10 yards (9.15 meters) away: This range usually refers to the center yard circle. An opponent player can not enter this space until or unless the player inside it touches the ball.

3. The ball must be stationary: The ball must not be touched or manipulated before the game starts or restarts.

4. The ball is in play when it is kicked and clearly moves: This is a consequence of one of the newer rules of the game. Updated in 2016, it allows the ball to move in any direction.

5. Only one player may touch the ball at the start: The most important rule for the player kicking it initially is that they can not touch it again. Only after another player, of either team, has touched it can they contact it again. If the same player touches the ball twice without interference, the referee’ll blow his whistle to award a free kick.

If any of these conditions are violated, the referee usually orders the kickoff to be retaken.

How to Start a Soccer Game: The Step by Step Process

Now that we know the fundamentals that form the basis of the rules, let’s take a step by step approach. This will help clearly any doubt in the reader’s mind regarding how the game begins.

1. The referee conducts the pre-match coin toss.
2. The winning team chooses either:
3. Which goal to attack, or
4. To take the opening kickoff.
5. The ball is placed on the center spot.
6. All players move into their appropriate halves.
7. Opponents remain outside the center circle.
8. The referee signals with a whistle.
9. The kickoff taker plays the ball. Hence, officially starting the game.

After halftime and after each goal, the same setup applies with the appropriate team taking the restart

Conclusion

At the end of the day, every law of the beautiful game is aimed to protect the player and the beauty of the game. Furthermore, these are not arbitrary rules added without cause. Instead, each new rule helps keep the game flowing and entertaining. In the past, players and coaches would often find loopholes in the rules book and exploit it. 

Although advantageous to their team, it was the game that truly suffered. That’s why the Laws of the Game are designed to provide a set of guidelines to both teams. Additionally, it ensures the magic that made football ‘The Beautiful Game’ is maintained. Hence, keeping existing fans hooked and appealing to younger generations.