How should a referee indicate a goal has been scored?

A referee should indicate a goal has been scored by raising both arms above their head. This action is universally recognized in soccer to signify that a goal has been successfully scored. It provides a clear and visible signal to players, coaches, and spectators alike, ensuring everyone understands that the play has resulted in a goal.

The act of raising both arms is not only a clear indication of a goal but also helps to eliminate any ambiguity about the status of the game. This method is part of the standardized signals that referees use, ensuring consistency across matches and competitions. The raised arms also serve to capture the attention of the Assistant Referees and confirm the goal has been acknowledged correctly.

When comparing this to other signaling methods in the choices, such as whistling loudly, using a flag, or turning one's back to the play area, it is clear that raising arms is the most effective and recognized way to celebrate a goal. Whistling may indicate various situations but lacks the specificity of indicating a goal. Signaling with a flag is typically used by Assistant Referees for offside or other infractions rather than for declaring a scored goal. Turning one's back to the play area does not communicate anything about the scoring situation and would likely lead to confusion