ArguingArguing
What is arguing in football/soccer?
Arguing, complaining or protesting about a decision is known as ‘dissent’ in football. It can be verbal (with words) or physical (running at the referee, making gestures, kicking or throwing the ball away, etc.).
How do referees deal with arguing in football/soccer?
Players, substitutes, coaches and other team officials should respect the decisions of the referee and the other match officials.
An initial, instinctive, non-exaggerated manifestation of disagreement, objection or complaint is usually accepted by the referee as a natural reaction.
However, clear and/or continual dissent (with words, actions or gestures) is punished with a yellow card and, if play is stopped because of the dissent, an indirect free kick is awarded to the other team.
If the words or gestures are offensive, insulting or abusive, the player must be shown a red card.
