When a player is offside, what does "interfering with an opponent" mean?

The concept of "interfering with an opponent" in the context of offside is primarily focused on any action that impacts an opponent’s ability to play the ball or influences their movements in relation to the game. While physically touching an opponent can be a factor, it is not the sole definition of interference.

Blocking an opponent's view of the ball is a valid instance of interference because it directly affects the opponent’s ability to make informed decisions during a play. If a player is positioned in such a way that they obstruct another player's sight of the ball, this can be considered interfering, as it makes it more challenging for the opponent to respond effectively to the play.

Being in an opponent's way can also qualify as interference, however, that notion is encompassed within the broader definition of obstructing or blocking an opponent's path to the ball or their ability to engage with the play.

While it's important to note that the other options may contribute to the overall understanding of interference, blocking the opponent's view stands out as a clear and focused example of what constitutes interfering with an opponent in the offside scenario. Therefore, highlighting this specific action reflects an accurate understanding of the rules regarding offside and the impact of player positioning on the game.