What is the responsibility of the linesman during a soccer match?

The linesman's primary responsibility during a soccer match is to call offside and other infractions that occur near their touchline. This role is crucial in maintaining the flow of the game and ensuring that teams adhere to the offside rule, which plays a significant part in the tactical aspects of soccer. The linesman has a unique vantage point along the sideline, allowing them to monitor the positions of players as the play unfolds, particularly when an attacking player is attempting to receive the ball.

In addition to offside calls, linesmen also signal for other violations, such as ball out of play, fouls occurring near the sideline, and when a goal kick or corner kick should be awarded. Accurate and timely decisions by the linesman help the referee maintain control of the match.

The other responsibilities mentioned in the choices, while important to the overall management of the game, fall outside the specific role of the linesman. Enforcing rules during play is a primary responsibility of the referee. Looking after the match's timing is also a duty of the referee and their assistants, while managing player substitutions is typically the responsibility of the referee and sometimes involves the fourth official, rather than the linesman.