Soccer Rules Practice Exam 2024 - Free Soccer Rules Practice Questions and Study Guide.

A penalty kick is awarded in soccer for serious fouls committed inside the penalty area. This is a direct free kick taken from the penalty spot, and the goal is defended only by the goalkeeper. It is awarded as a punishment for fouls that deny an obvious goal-scoring opportunity. Options A, B, and D are incorrect because a penalty kick is not awarded after a corner kick, for offside violations, or for any foul committed during the match. Penalty kicks are specifically given for serious fouls inside the penalty area, where the defending team is penalized with the possibility of a direct shot on goal from the penalty spot.