What is the purpose of the advantage rule in soccer?

The advantage rule in soccer is designed to promote continuous play and favor the team that has been fouled, rather than stopping the game immediately for a free kick or penalty. When the referee determines that the non-offending team can maintain or gain an advantage by continuing to play, they signal the advantage instead of halting the game. This allows the team to take full advantage of the situation, which is often more beneficial for fluid gameplay rather than pausing for a restart.

This is particularly important in soccer because it enhances the flow of the game and can lead to goal-scoring opportunities. The referee has the discretion to decide whether the advantage truly exists, and if not, they can call back the play and issue the appropriate penalty later.

Other options suggest outcomes that center around punishing the offending team or restarting the game, which do not embody the essence of the advantage rule. The advantage rule specifically emphasizes the opportunity for the non-offending team to continue play, hence its proper identification in this context.