What is an indirect free kick?

An indirect free kick is defined as a type of free kick in which the ball must touch another player before a goal can be scored. This means that the player taking the kick cannot score directly from the kick itself; they must pass the ball to a teammate or have it touch an opponent first. This rule ensures that there is an additional element of play before a goal can be attempted, distinguishing it from a direct free kick, where the kicker can shoot directly at the goal.

The other choices do not accurately define an indirect free kick. For example, the idea that it is a type of kick from which a goal can be directly scored contradicts the very nature of an indirect free kick, where that must not happen without the ball first touching another player. Similarly, not all fouls lead to the awarding of an indirect free kick, as some fouls result in a direct free kick. The assertion that it is taken from the corner area misrepresents the nature of the indirect free kick, as such a kick can be awarded from various places on the field during play, not just from the corners. Only specific offenses and certain situations lead to indirect free kicks being awarded, often including offenses like dangerous play or obstruction.