The law does not directly cover what to do in the event of an accidental double touch, and Ifab said referees had “understandably” been penalising players up to this point.
However, the board said Law 14’s primary purpose was to deal with deliberate double touches and a clarification has now been issued to all national associations and confederations.
Ifab acknowledged it would be unfair not to penalise a double touch at all and allow such kicks to stand as a goal, because goalkeepers can be disadvantaged by the altered trajectory of the ball.
However, it has now clarified that where an accidental ‘double-touch’ kick is scored, it should be retaken rather than ruled out.
Where such kicks are unsuccessful, an indirect free-kick will be given to the defending team if they occur in a match or be recorded as a miss if during a shootout.
The clarified law will be effective from 1 July, but Ifab said it “may be used by competitions starting before that date”.
The Fifa Club World Cup takes place in the United States from 14 June-13 July.
