A yellow card in soccer means the referee has warned a player for breaking a rule or for unsporting behavior. The player usually stays in the game, but a second yellow in the same match becomes a red card, which sends the player off.

Common reasons include reckless tackles, dissent toward the referee, simulation, and time-wasting. In simple terms, it is a caution: one more similar offense can lead to a harsher punishment.

What it means

  • Warning from the referee.
  • Player can usually continue playing.
  • Two yellow cards in one match equal a red card and dismissal.

Example

If a defender makes a late sliding challenge, the referee may show a yellow card as a caution. If that same player gets another yellow later, they are sent off.

Other sports

The yellow-card idea is most familiar in soccer/football, though some other sports use similar warning systems.

In short, a yellow card means: watch your behavior, or you may be out next.