Corner Kick in Football: How It Works
Learn how corner kicks work in football: when they are awarded, how to take them, opponent distance rules, and key regulations.
What is a corner kick
A corner kick is a method of restarting play awarded to the attacking team when the ball has completely crossed the goal line after last being touched by a defending player, without a goal being scored.
When it is awarded
A corner kick is given when:
- The ball completely crosses the goal line; - It does not enter between the goalposts and under the crossbar; - The last touch was by a player of the defending team.
Where it is taken from
The ball is placed in the corner area nearest to the point where it crossed the goal line.
It must be stationary before execution.
Who can take the corner kick
Any player of the attacking team can take the corner kick.
Teams often choose players particularly skilled in crossing or set pieces.
When the ball is in play
The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves clearly.
It is not necessary to leave the corner area.
How far opponents must stand
Opponents must respect the required distance from the ball until it is in play.
Generally, they must be at least 9.15 meters from the corner arc.
Can a goal be scored directly from a corner kick
Yes.
It is possible to score directly into the opponent's goal from a corner kick.
This type of goal is often called an "Olympic goal."
What is an Olympic goal
An Olympic goal is a goal scored directly from a corner kick, without any other player touching the ball before it enters the goal.
It is a rare technical feat as it requires precision, spin, and a very difficult trajectory to execute.
What happens if the ball goes directly into the player's own goal
If the ball is kicked directly into the team's own goal from a corner kick, a normal own goal is not awarded.
The subsequent restart is determined according to the Laws of the Game.
Can the taker touch the ball again
No, not before the ball has been touched by another player.
If the taker plays the ball again before another player touches it, the opposing team is awarded a restart.
Can a short corner be taken
Yes.
A corner kick does not have to be crossed directly into the area.
A team can choose to make a short pass to a nearby teammate.
Why use a short corner
The short corner can be used to:
- Create a two-on-one situation; - Change the angle of the cross; - Maintain possession; - Surprise the defense; - Prepare an offensive set play.
Is there offside from a corner kick
No.
A player cannot be penalized for offside when receiving the ball directly from a corner kick.
When offside applies again
After the ball is played by another player, the normal offside rule applies again.
This is particularly important for short corners.
Can the goalkeeper be obstructed during a corner
Players can occupy positions close to the goalkeeper but must not commit fouls.
Holding, pushing or illegal blocking can be penalized by the referee.
What happens if a foul occurs in the area during the corner
If an attacking player commits a foul, the referee may award a restart to the defending team.
If a defender commits an infraction punishable by a direct free kick in their own area, a penalty kick may be awarded.
Can a corner kick be taken quickly
Yes, if all required conditions are met.
A quick corner can surprise a defense that is not yet organized.
Why corner kicks are important
Corner kicks represent one of the main offensive set-piece situations.
They can create chances through:
- Crosses to the near post; - Crosses to the far post; - Balls toward the center of the area; - Prepared set plays; - Short corners; - Direct shots.
How corner kicks are defended
Teams can use different defensive systems.
Among the most common:
- Man marking; - Zone marking; - Mixed system.
Corner kicks and statistics
The number of corner kicks is often used in match statistics.
However, having more corners does not automatically mean better chances of scoring.
This data should be interpreted alongside other statistics like shots, possession, and chances created.
Can VAR intervene after a corner kick
A simple decision on awarding a corner is usually not within the main VAR intervention categories.
However, VAR can review a subsequent incident if it falls within protocol situations, such as a goal, a possible penalty, or a direct red card.
How to follow corner kicks on Football17
On Football17 you can follow live scores, events, and statistics of available matches.
When provided by the data provider, the number of corner kicks can be consulted together with other match statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is a corner kick awarded?
When the ball crosses the goal line after last being touched by a defender, without a goal being scored.
Can a goal be scored directly from a corner?
Yes. A goal scored directly from a corner kick is valid in the opponent's goal.
What is an Olympic goal?
A goal scored directly from a corner kick.
Is there offside from a corner kick?
No, if the player receives the ball directly from the corner.
How far must opponents stand?
Generally at least 9.15 meters from the corner arc.
Can a short corner be taken?
Yes. The taker can pass the ball to a nearby teammate.