Kulmapotkut

Kulmapotkut, in Finnish football terminology, refer to the corner kicks awarded to the attacking team when the ball has wholly crossed the goal line outside the goal and was last touched by a defender. The ball is placed within the corner area, and play resumes with a kick from the corner. The defending team must give the attackers a distance of at least 9.15 meters (10 yards) from the ball until it is in play. A goal can be scored directly from a corner kick.

Rules and procedure: The ball must be stationary within the corner arc before the kick. The kicker must move the ball into play by kicking it; the ball is in play once it clearly moves. Opponents may not infringe the required distance until the ball is in play. The ball can subsequently touch any player, and a goal can be scored directly from a corner kick, though many teams attempt to create a goal-scoring opportunity through crosses and combinations rather than a direct strike.

Variations and tactics: Kulmapotkut offer several tactical options. A direct corner aims for a goal, while short corners involve quick passes between teammates to create space or a cross into the penalty area. Common plays include crosses to far posts, near-post flick-ons, and set-piece routines designed to confuse defenders and goalkeeper. Teams also deploy decoy runs and staggered movements to disrupt marking.

Role in the game: Kulmapotkut are a fundamental set piece in football, often used to regain momentum or create high-quality chances. Effectiveness depends on delivery accuracy, timing, and the coordination of runners and finishers.