The advantage rule is one of the most important tools in a referee’s kit. I have seen it used brilliantly to keep games flowing, and I have seen it frustrate everyone when applied poorly. Here is what I have learned about getting it right.
What is Advantage?
Law 5 allows referees to let play continue when a foul occurs, if stopping play would benefit the team that committed the foul.
The key principle: punish the offending team, not the team that was fouled.
When to Apply Advantage
Consider advantage when:
- The fouled team keeps possession of the ball
- The fouled team has a genuine attacking opportunity
- Stopping play would kill a promising attack
When NOT to Apply Advantage
Stop play when:
- The foul is violent or dangerous (regardless of advantage)
- The fouled team clearly loses the ball
- There is no real attacking opportunity
- The foul deserves a red card for violent conduct
The “Wait and See” Approach
You do not have to decide instantly. Modern interpretation allows referees to wait 2-3 seconds to see if the advantage materialises.
Signal clearly: Extend both arms in front of you to show you are playing advantage.
If advantage does not materialise: Stop play and bring it back to the original foul location.
Advantage and Cards
Playing advantage does not mean you forget about discipline.
Yellow Card Offences
- Play advantage, then show the card at the next stoppage
- You can still caution the player later
Red Card Offences
- Violent conduct or serious foul play: Stop play immediately. No advantage for these.
- DOGSO: Play advantage if a goal is scored. If not, bring it back and send off.
- Second yellow: You can play advantage, but must show both cards at the next stoppage.
Practical Scenarios
Scenario 1: Midfielder is fouled but their pass reaches a teammate in a good position.
- Play advantage. The team benefited.
Scenario 2: Attacker is fouled at the edge of the box but stays on feet and shoots wide.
- Bring it back for the free kick. Advantage did not work out.
Scenario 3: Attacker is fouled, passes to teammate, teammate scores.
- Goal stands. Advantage realised. No need to go back.
Scenario 4: Violent tackle in midfield, fouled team keeps the ball.
- Stop immediately. Violent conduct must be dealt with.
Common Mistakes
- Playing advantage for every foul - Sometimes a free kick in a dangerous position is better than a sloppy attack
- Waiting too long - 2-3 seconds is enough to assess
- Forgetting about cards - Advantage does not wipe out misconduct
- No clear signal - Players and coaches need to know you have seen the foul
The Referee’s Mindset
Ask yourself: “What does the fouled team want here?”
A free kick on the halfway line? They probably want advantage. A free kick just outside the penalty area? They might prefer the set piece.
Read the game. Make the decision that helps the game, not the one that is easiest.
Practice Your Judgment
Advantage decisions require quick thinking and game reading. The more scenarios you work through, the better your instincts become.
RefereeGPT helps you practice these split-second decisions before you face them in a real match.
Want to improve your referee decisions? Try RefereeGPT free - 5 questions daily covering all 17 Laws.