What is the definition of impeding an opponent in soccer?

Impediment involves blocking the path of an opponent without making an attempt to play the ball, thereby preventing them from moving freely. This can occur when a player positions themselves in a way that obstructs an opponent's running path. The essence of impeding lies in the act of interfering with the opponent's ability to play the ball or to navigate the field effectively.

In the context of soccer, it's important to distinguish this action from other maneuvers made during gameplay. Challenging for the ball usually involves a legitimate attempt to play it, while making physical contact does not inherently imply impeding unless it obstructs the opponent's movement. Gaining an unfair advantage can encompass a broader range of actions, but impeding specifically refers to restricting the opponent's movement without a fair attempt to play. Hence, defining impeding primarily as blocking the opponent's path encapsulates the key principle underlying this rule.