During a match, when are goal kicks to be taken?

A goal kick is awarded when the ball goes out of play over the goal line, but last touched by an attacking player. This situation occurs when an attacking player kicks the ball and it goes out of bounds beyond the goal line, making it necessary for the defending team to regain possession of the ball by taking a goal kick from within the goal area. This rule is crucial as it allows for a restart that gives the defending team a chance to clear the ball and reestablish their defensive position.

In contrast, the scenarios presented in the other choices do not meet the criteria for a goal kick. A goal kick would not be awarded if the ball goes out over the sideline, as that situation would call for a throw-in rather than a goal kick. Similarly, if the ball is last touched by an opponent, a corner kick would be awarded to the attacking team instead of a goal kick. Finally, a foul that causes the referee to stop play does not directly lead to a goal kick; it suggests either a free kick or a penalty kick depending on the foul's nature and location on the field.