Cards decide derbies and WhatsApp fights. Here’s the clean version.
Yellow Card (Caution)
Shown for offences listed in the Laws of the Game — reckless challenges, dissent, delaying restarts, and more. Two yellows in one match = red.
Red Card (Sending-Off)
- Straight red for serious foul play, violent conduct, denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity (with nuances), spitting, etc.
- Player leaves; team usually continues with 10
Competition rules set suspensions after reds — league vs cup can differ.
Fan Myths
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| “Ref must card that” | Advantage and context exist |
| Handball always yellow | Not automatic |
| Soft yellows don’t count | They do — especially second yellows |
Related: Offside explained · VAR in Ghana.
Sources / Verify With
- IFAB Laws of the Game
- Competition disciplinary codes
Original Sen Gideons News Studio editorial.