What is the primary role of the fourth official during a match?

The primary role of the fourth official during a match is to assist the referee and manage substitutions. This position exists to provide support to the on-field officials, ensuring that the match runs smoothly. The fourth official is responsible for signaling when substitutions are to be made, indicating how much time will be added for stoppages, and helping with any administrative tasks related to game management.

The fourth official also serves as a point of communication between the on-field officials and the technical areas, where the coaches are situated. This role is crucial in maintaining the flow of the game and ensuring that all rules regarding substitutions and timekeeping are adhered to. Play cannot restart until the fourth official has acknowledged the substitution, emphasizing the significance of this role.

The other options suggest roles that do not align with the established responsibilities of the fourth official in soccer. The fourth official does not officiate the game independently, keep score, or analyze player statistics as part of their duties during a match. Their focus is on assisting the main referee and facilitating a seamless match experience for all involved.