If a player denies an obvious goal-scoring opportunity in their own penalty area using excessive force, what must the referee do?

When a player uses excessive force to deny an obvious goal-scoring opportunity within their own penalty area, the situation falls under the rules regarding "serious foul play" and denying a goal-scoring opportunity. In this scenario, the referee is obligated to award a penalty kick to the opposing team because the infraction occurred within the penalty area.

Additionally, since the player’s action involved excessive force, the appropriate disciplinary action is to show the player a red card. This indicates that the player will be sent off due to their misconduct, which is in line with the laws of the game that aim to prevent dangerous behavior on the field. Showing a red card for such an infraction helps maintain the integrity of the game and ensures player safety.

In summary, the referee must award the penalty kick for the foul and issue a red card to the offending player for the use of excessive force, effectively leading to the conclusion that this choice is the most accurate representation of the rules concerning serious foul play in the penalty area.