Referee Review
Why was this decision made?
See the key points from a referee’s perspective
Show explanation
Referee Review
Why was this decision made?
See the key points from a referee’s perspective
Show explanationHow the footage and Laws apply
The referee correctly judged the contact with the supporting arm and clearly signalled that play should continue. Not every touch of the ball on a hand or arm is a handball offence. Here the player had put the arm down to support the body during a natural fall, and the ball struck it accidentally. The referee also used a clear, broad gesture to communicate the no-handball decision to the players, benches and crowd. Oita's players continued without hesitation and the move led to a goal. This combined accurate application of the Law with clear communication.
Relevant Laws
Law 5 – The Referee / Law 12 – Fouls and Misconduct (Handling the ball)
Official references
Check the wording of the Laws
The links above lead to official IFAB and JFA resources. The application of the Laws to this incident is the author’s analysis and is not an official view of IFAB, JFA or the competition organiser.
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