What is the punishment for impeding an opponent?

The punishment for impeding an opponent is an indirect free kick. Impeding occurs when a player obstructs or blocks an opponent's path without making an attempt to play the ball. This action is considered a violation of the Laws of the Game and specifically falls under the category of unsporting behavior.

An indirect free kick is awarded because the action does not meet the criteria that would warrant a direct free kick or a penalty kick. In the case of indirect free kicks, the ball must touch another player before a goal can be scored, emphasizing that the action is less dangerous than other more serious violations.

This distinction is important to understanding how the game is officiated and how different types of fouls correspond to different types of free kicks. The severity of the infraction, in this case, does not justify the awarding of a direct free kick or a penalty kick, nor is it a cautionable offense that would lead to a yellow card. This clarification assists referees in applying the rules consistently and fairly throughout the match.