If a free kick is awarded just outside the penalty area, where must the defending players stand?

When a free kick is awarded just outside the penalty area, the Laws of the Game require that defending players must stand at least 10 yards away from the ball until the kick is taken. This rule is in place to ensure that the attacking team has a fair opportunity to execute the kick without immediate interference from the defenders. The 10-yard distance helps to maintain the flow of the game and reduces the likelihood of physical confrontations that could lead to fouls or injuries.

This distance allows the kicking team to set up their play and take the kick without the defenders being in immediate proximity, which could disrupt the execution of the kick. The requirement reinforces the importance of maintaining respect for the attending rules on the field during set pieces and promotes a safer playing environment for all players involved in the game.