When is a direct free kick awarded?

A direct free kick is awarded primarily for fouls that involve contact, such as tripping, pushing, or holding an opponent. This type of kick allows the attacking team to attempt to score a goal directly from the spot where the foul occurred. The rules of the game specify that certain offenses that lead to direct free kicks are violations involving physical contact that unfairly challenges an opponent's ability to play the ball.

Unsportsmanlike behavior can lead to different types of sanctions, but not every instance will result in a direct free kick; it often depends on the nature of the action and whether it affects play. Additionally, a foul that involves no contact would not merit a direct free kick because the fundamental principle behind awarding such a kick is that a physical infraction occurred. Finally, when the ball goes out of play, it results in either a throw-in, goal kick, or corner kick rather than a direct free kick. Thus, the scenario described in the correct choice best reflects when a direct free kick is properly awarded according to the laws of the game.