When it comes to contesting calls, there’s no argument that soccer is king

U.S. star Christian Pulisic, left, argues with referee Kevin Ortega during a Copa America group match against Uruguay in July 2024. When it comes to contesting calls, soccer allows players to argue quite a bit more with referees than other sports leagues.Soccer is the only major U.S. team sport where players openly argue calls with referees without risking immediate ejection or penalties.

The game’s fluidity and subjective nature of fouls mean referees must interpret 50-50 calls, making protests part of soccer’s culture.

Veteran officials and players agree that strategic, respectful communication works better than constant complaining.

Christina Unkel was 10 when she became a certified soccer…