Can a goalkeeper score a goal in soccer?
How It Happens
A goalkeeper can score in several ways: by punting or throwing the ball the length of the field into the opponent's goal (rare but possible), by taking a free kick or penalty kick, or by going forward for a corner or set piece and scoring with a header or shot.
The most common way is when a goalkeeper takes a goal kick or free kick and the ball bounces over the opposing goalkeeper. Direct goals from a goalkeeper's throw are not allowed—a throw-in cannot directly score, but a throw from the goalkeeper's hands (during play) can score if it goes into the opponent's goal.
Rules and Restrictions
A goalkeeper can score directly from a goal kick, a free kick, or a punt (drop kick) as long as the ball is in play. However, a goalkeeper cannot score directly from a throw-in (the ball must touch another player first).
If a goalkeeper scores, it counts as a regular goal. They are subject to the same rules as any other player when outside their penalty area, but inside their area, they can handle the ball with their hands.
Notable Examples
Several goalkeepers have scored in professional matches. For instance, in 2013, Stoke City's Asmir Begović scored from a long goal kick against Southampton. In 2021, Alisson Becker scored a header for Liverpool. These are rare but memorable.
In women's soccer, goalkeepers have also scored, such as in the 2019 Women's World Cup when Chile's Christiane Endler scored a penalty. The feat is uncommon but entirely legal.
Common mistakes
- Thinking goalkeepers can't score—they can, and it counts.
- Believing a goalkeeper's throw can directly score—it cannot; a throw-in must touch another player first.
- Assuming goalkeepers are restricted to their penalty area—they can leave and play as a field player, but lose hand privileges.
