Most soccer enthusiasts worldwide are well-versed in the sport’s rules, regulations, and disciplinary actions. Referees enforce these rules on the field, ensuring fair play among all participants. Typically, referees utilize two cards to caution or penalize players for infractions: the red card for serious offenses, such as deliberate handballs or reckless play, and the yellow card as a warning.
However, a new addition to the disciplinary system emerged on January 21, 2023, marking a historic moment in soccer. In a women’s league cup match between Sporting Lisbon and Benfica in Portugal, the white card made its debut in an official FIFA competition. According to Shaban Shomvi, a former Tanzanian soccer player, the white card serves to acknowledge and reward instances of fair play, good sportsmanship, or positive contributions to the game. Shomvi emphasizes that it is specifically designed to enhance discipline within soccer.
Previously, acts of excellence or sportsmanship during a match would receive recognition post-game through awards bestowed upon specific teams, players, or individuals. However, the introduction of the white card signifies a shift, with acknowledgment now occurring in real-time during the match itself.