The new 8-second rule for goalkeepers is intended to reduce time-wasting and maintain the flow of the game. The previous 6-second rule was rarely enforced, as the indirect free kick was seen as too harsh and difficult to manage. This led to goalkeepers holding the ball longer, particularly late in matches.
Under the updated law, goalkeepers have up to 8 seconds in possession, and enforcement is mandatory. If exceeded, play restarts with a corner kick, giving referees a more practical solution.
All MSA referees are required to count using the following standard procedure : MSA 8-Second Rule Standard Procedure
To see how the count is applied in practice, visit our YouTube channel, where 11 different scenarios are demonstrated along with their descriptions below: Youtube Link
Description:
Goalkeeper makes a save and releases the ball within 8 seconds.
Outcome:
Apply standard count procedure, play continues
Description:
Goalkeeper gains clear control and holds the ball for more than 8 seconds.
Outcome:
Apply standard count procedure, Corner Kick awarded
Description:
Goalkeeper smothers the ball on the ground without being challenged.
Outcome:
The count starts when the goalkeeper has clear control of the ball and is not immediately being challenged
Description:
Goalkeeper holds the ball while being pressured; attacker then backs away.
Outcome:
The count is delayed or paused if the goalkeeper is being challenged while having clear control of the ball.
Description:
Attacker continues to challenge goalkeeper in possession.
Outcome:
IFK (indirect free kick) to goalkeeper
Description:
Goalkeeper is fouled while in possession of the ball.
Outcome:
DFK (direct free kick) to goalkeeper
Description:
Goalkeeper bounces the ball while in control and exceeds 8 seconds.
Outcome:
Corner Kick awarded
Description:
Goalkeeper begins releasing the ball as the 8 seconds expire.
Outcome:
Play on
Description:
Referee does not begin the count; external reminder occurs.
Outcome:
Pick up the count at "Two!" to give a chance to the goalkeeper to play the ball using the standard procedure.
Description:
Referee misses the count; assistant referee intervenes.
Outcome:
AR starts the count in their head, and provides a signal to referee when they notice the count was not started. Proceed from "Five!" using the standard procedure.
Description:
Referee forgets count and AR cannot get attention.
Outcome:
AR starts the count in their head, and attempts to provide a signal to referee when they notice the count was not started. Signals for an offense after a clear violation (10+ seconds) with a corner kick awarded.