Law 11 - Offside

Law 11 is one of the most often misunderstood of the 17 Laws of the Game (LOTG). 
Players, Coaches and Spectators all struggle with its interpretation in various match situation.

This page attempts to bring together numerous resources from around the web to foster a better understanding of Offside for referees, players, coaches and spectators. 

The Wording of Law 11

To view Law 11 as written in the FIFA 2008-2009 LOTG, Click Here and go to page 34 of the PDF document.

Key points to remember

Training Resources

FIFA Interactive Guide

FIFA Additional Instructions and Guidelines for Referees (Part of the 2008-09 LOTG)

US Soccer Federation Interpretation of the Laws of the Game and Guidelines for Referees (previously: Advice to Referees on the Laws of the Game)

US Soccer Federation Guide to Procedures for Referees, Assistant Referees and Fourth Officials (Revised June 2008)

US Soccer Federation Position Papers and Memoranda

   
Offside - Interfering With Play (.pdf) - added 03/25/09 - (Watch now at YouTube)
Priority of Assistant Referee Responsibilities (.pdf) - added 03/24
Offside On A Corner Kick (.pdf) - added 04/24/08 - (Watch now at YouTube)
Offside Myths - added 10/17/07 click here
Offside Issues (.pdf) - added 10/16/07 - (Watch now at YouTube)
Offside and Interfering with Play (.pdf) - added 7/26/07 - (Watch now at YouTube)
Offside - Classic Offside Situation (.pdf) - added 05/04/2007 - (Watch now at YouTube)
Offside - Is Touching the Ball a Requirement? (.pdf) - added 04/18/07 - (Watch now at YouTube)
Offside - Interfering with Play and an Opponent (.pdf) - added 8/25/2006 (Google Video)
Applying Law 11 (Offside) Correctly D.C. United v. Red Bull N.Y. (April 2, 2006) (Webpage with Video)
Offside Decision, Chi Fire at NE Revs Eastern Conf Final 11/6/05 (Webpage with Video)
Offside - (.pdf) - added 9/8/05 (Presentation Slides)
Offside - Law 11 (.pdf) - added 8/24/05

US Soccer Federation "Ask a Soccer Referee" Website

Other Resources

Training Videos from US Soccer Federation's Soccer Store
www.ussoccerstore.com

If you have a favorite Law 11 webpage that is not included here, please email the link to flandau@paonline.com

This page last updated 08/23/2010.