What is the restart when a substitute throws a shoe at an opponent?

In the scenario where a substitute throws a shoe at an opponent, the appropriate restart is a free kick for the opposing team. This incident involves a substitute, which means that the player is not currently participating in the game. However, the action of throwing an object at an opponent can be deemed as misconduct.

When a substitute engages in such behavior, it typically warrants a free kick for the opposing team, as it is a violent conduct offense or unsporting behavior. The match referee is responsible for assessing the situation and determining the right course of action, which often involves taking disciplinary measures against the substitute, including issuing a caution or even a dismissal, depending on the seriousness of the action.

While a drop ball may occur in specific circumstances involving the ball being out of play due to an infraction, it is not applicable here since misconduct directly affects the flow of the game and this involved deliberate action against an opponent. A penalty kick would not apply either, as this scenario pertains to a substitute and not an on-field player committing a foul inside the penalty area. Lastly, simply giving a caution to the substitute does not address the necessary restart, which is why a free kick for the opposing team is the correct response.