What is the penalty for Substitute/Bench Player B12 kicking the ball while mistakenly assuming it was out of bounds?

In this scenario, when a substitute or bench player kicks the ball while incorrectly believing it is out of bounds, the infraction is treated seriously due to the nature of the mistake and the potential disruption it can cause in the game. The correct answer indicates that a direct kick is awarded to the opposing team from the point of infraction.

This is in accordance with the Laws of the Game, which state that interfering with play by a player who is not on the field can lead to a direct free kick for the opposing team. Such actions can disrupt the flow of the game and create an unfair advantage, hence the enforcement of a penalty.

Players on the bench are expected to adhere to the rules just as players on the field do, and their actions can significantly impact the game. Therefore, awarding a direct kick is a proper disciplinary response that reflects the seriousness of the situation rather than merely allowing it as a common mistake.