What is the Offside Rule in soccer?

The Offside Rule in soccer is defined by the situation where a player is considered offside if they are closer to the opponent's goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent when the ball is played to them. This rule is designed to prevent players from gaining an unfair advantage by positioning themselves too close to the opponent's goal ahead of the play.

Understanding this concept helps to maintain fairness and promote strategic play in the game. When the player is deemed to be offside, the opposing team is awarded an indirect free kick from where the player was when the offside occurred. This aspect of the rule encourages players to stay involved in the play instead of simply waiting near the opponent's goal for a pass.

The other options do not accurately represent the essence of the offside rule or misinterpret its application within the game.