You may have heard the term "red card" thrown around during the game or discussions about soccer. But what exactly is a red card in soccer and what are the rules of soccer surrounding it? 

Understanding the implications of a red card is crucial to avoid potential suspensions or disciplinary actions.

What Does a Red Card Mean in Soccer?

A red card is the most severe punishment a player can receive for a serious offense or misconduct. It means that the player must immediately leave the field and cannot return for the rest of the game. 

The decision to issue a red card is made by the referee, who uses their judgment to determine whether the offense was serious enough.

Receiving a red card has serious consequences for the player and their team, including the player being suspended for at least one game.

What Happens When You Get a Red Card in Soccer?

A red card is a common scenario in soccer games. If you receive a red card in soccer, the referee will immediately send you off from the game, meaning your team has to play with one less player.


However, what is more frustrating is that if you are in the penalty box and receive a red card the opposing team will get a penalty kick which can be a reason for your team to lose the game.

The opposing team may also get a free kick if you get a red card outside of the penalty area.

You might face additional disciplinary action, such as a suspension, fines, and possible further action from the soccer governing body. 

It's important for players to play fair and avoid actions that could result in a red card, in order to prevent negative consequences for themselves and their team.

How Do You Get a Red Card in Soccer?

You can receive a red card offenses for serious foul play, violent conduct, spitting at an opponent, denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity, using abusive language or gestures, excessive force, intentional handball, or receiving a second yellow card in the same game.

Whenever you commit a serious offense during the game the referee signals and decides weather the violation is enough to warrant a red card. If you commit such an offense, the referee will show you a red card and sent you off the game.

How Many Games Do Players Miss After Getting a Red Card?

When you receive a red card in soccer, you typically miss the next match. However, the number of games you can miss depends on the severity of the offense and the laws of the game or competition you're playing in. 

Sometimes, a red card may result in a longer suspension, such as a three-game ban for violent conduct. But usually, if you are not involved in any major violation, you can play the game from the next match. 

Number of Players that Can Be Sent Off in a Soccer Game

The number of players that can be sent off in a game depends on the specific league soccer rules. It can vary between the UEFA, premier league, Champions League, FIFA world cup, and other leagues.

As we all know, a team can have a maximum of 11 players on the field, and if a player receives a red card, they are immediately sent off, and their team must continue playing with one player less. 

If another player on the same team receives a red card, they are also sent off, and the team is reduced to 9 players. However, some leagues or competitions may allow for a maximum of three red cards per team before the game is abandoned.

What Happens If a Goalkeeper Receives a Red Card?

When a goalkeeper receives a red card in soccer, they must leave the ground, and his team can substitute them with another player. If the team has no available substitutes or the substitute goalkeeper is also sent off, a player who is already on the field must take the goalkeeper's position, and the team must continue playing.

FAQ

Do soccer players get fined for receiving a red card?

Yes, soccer players can be fined for receiving a red card. These can range from a one-match suspension to being banned from playing in multiple matches or even being suspended from playing indefinitely.

Which professional soccer players have received the most red cards?

Gerardo Bedoya is the soccer player that received the most red cards, with a grand total of 46 red cards.

Do you get suspended for getting a red card?

Yes, players can be suspended for receiving a red card. Depending on the severity of your foul, you may receive either an automatic one-match suspension or something more severe such as being banned from multiple matches or even expelled from the tournament.

Final Thoughts

A red card is a serious disciplinary action that can impact both the player and the team. It's important for players to understand what actions can lead to a red card and to strive to play within the rules of the game. 

However, even the most skilled players can benefit from additional practice to develop their skills. That's where the Open Goaaal 3-in-1 Trainer comes in handy. This innovative soccer trainer and rebounder is designed to help players of all levels practice effectively at home, without the risk of breaking windows or losing the ball.