Football's offside rule, explained in one minute

Offside is the rule that stops attackers simply waiting beside the opponents' goal.

The basic test

A player is in an offside position if they're nearer the goal line than both the ball and the second-last defender when a teammate plays the ball.

Being there isn't an offence

It's only penalised if the player becomes involved in play, for example by receiving the ball or blocking the goalkeeper's view.

Where it doesn't apply

You can't be offside in your own half, or directly from a goal kick, throw-in or corner.

Level counts as onside

If the attacker is level with the second-last defender, they are onside.