What does the referee do before the start of 'Kicks from the Mark'?

Before the start of 'Kicks from the Mark,' the referee performs a coin toss to determine which team will kick first and in what direction each team will shoot. This process is crucial because it establishes the order of play and ensures that both teams are clear about the rules for the shootout. The referee's role in this situation is to ensure fairness and clarity as the teams prepare for this critical moment in the match.

The other actions, while pertinent to the overall management of a soccer game, do not specifically apply to the procedure before Kicks from the Mark. For instance, checking player equipment or calling for substitutions are typically handled during normal play rather than during the shootout process. Signaling with a whistle is a common practice throughout the game but is not specific to the preparation phase of Kicks from the Mark. The coin toss stands out as the necessary step to facilitate a fair competition during this exciting moment in the game.