Obstruction (Impeding)

A player cannot use their body to block an opponent from reaching the ball when not within playing distance. This is called impeding and results in an indirect free kick.

The full rule

Impeding the progress of an opponent means moving into their path to block them without playing the ball, or using the body as an obstacle. It is different from a shoulder charge or shielding the ball, which are legal. Shielding is permitted when the ball is within playing distance — a player can legally use their body to protect the ball. But once the ball is out of reach, blocking an opponent becomes impeding and is punished with an indirect free kick. No physical contact is necessary.

Key points

✓Impeding results in an indirect free kick
✓No contact required — blocking the path is enough
✓Shielding is legal when the ball is within playing distance
✓Moving into an opponent's path without playing the ball is impeding
✓Different from a fair shoulder charge which involves contact for the ball

Scenarios

Scenario 1

Player shields ball out of play

Foul

A player lets the ball roll out for a goal kick and then blocks the opponent from retrieving it quickly by standing in their way.

Correct call: Indirect free kick for impeding. The ball is out of play so shielding no longer applies.

Common mistake: Allowing it because it looked like shielding. Shielding is only legal while the ball is in play and within playing distance.

Scenario 2

Defender legally shields ball to corner

No foul

A defender reaches the ball first near the corner flag and uses their body to hold off the attacker while keeping the ball in play.

Correct call: Legal shielding. The ball is within playing distance and the defender is using their body legitimately.

Common mistake: Awarding a foul because the attacker cannot get past. Physical shielding with the ball in range is entirely legal.