Which of the following is considered a serious foul play?

A tackle that is out of control is considered serious foul play because it poses a significant risk of injury to the opponent. Serious foul play involves actions that are not only illegal according to the rules but also demonstrate a blatant disregard for the safety of others on the field. An out-of-control tackle often involves excessive force or reckless movement, making it highly dangerous. This type of foul usually warrants a red card, as it exceeds the threshold of acceptable physical contact in the game of soccer.

In contrast, the other actions listed—such as a minor shove on an opponent, a professional foul to prevent a clear scoring opportunity, and a verbal confrontation with the referee—do not typically involve the same level of danger or recklessness as an out-of-control tackle. A professional foul, while serious, often results from a tactical decision rather than a reckless disregard for safety, whereas a minor shove may be seen as a part of normal play. Verbal confrontations, while they may lead to penalties or disciplinary actions, do not manifest physical danger in the same way as an uncontrolled tackle.