<P> Goalkeepers are normally allowed to handle the ball within their own penalty area , and once they have control of the ball in their hands opposition players may not challenge them for it . However the back - pass rule prohibits goalkeepers from handling the ball after it has been deliberately kicked to them by a team - mate , or after receiving it directly from a throw - in taken by a team - mate . Back - passes with parts of the body other than the foot , such as headers , are not prohibited . Despite the popular name `` back - pass rule '' , there is no requirement in the laws that the kick or throw - in must be backwards ; handling by the goalkeeper is forbidden regardless of the direction the ball travels . </P>
<P> Goalkeepers are normally allowed to handle the ball within their own penalty area , and once they have control of the ball in their hands opposition players may not challenge them for it . However the back - pass rule prohibits goalkeepers from handling the ball after it has been deliberately kicked to them by a team - mate , or after receiving it directly from a throw - in taken by a team - mate . Back - passes with parts of the body other than the foot , such as headers , are not prohibited . Despite the popular name `` back - pass rule '' , there is no requirement in the laws that the kick or throw - in must be backwards ; handling by the goalkeeper is forbidden regardless of the direction the ball travels . </P>
where is the goalie allowed to pick up the ball
where is the goalie allowed to pick up the ball
within their own penalty area
within their own penalty area