When is a player considered to be offside?

A player is considered to be offside when they are closer to the opponent's goal line than the second-to-last defender at the moment the ball is played to them, provided they are actively involved in the play. This rule aims to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by positioning themselves closer to the opponent's goal than defenders at the time of the pass.

This offside scenario is grounded in ensuring a fair contest that encourages skillful play and strategic positioning. If a player is behind the ball when it is played or is stationary while not interfering with play, they do not meet the criteria for being offside. The offside rule specifically applies only when a player is actively involved in the play, which includes making a move toward the ball or influencing the actions of defenders or teammates.

The other scenarios described do not qualify a player as offside. For example, standing still does not inherently place a player in an offside position, and being behind the ball at the time of play means the offside rule doesn't apply. Also, offside cannot only be considered during a throw-in, as the rule encompasses various game situations like open play, goal kicks, and corner kicks as well.