by Matthew Adams

Created on: November 16, 2009

Defending in soccer is what can really separate the best teams from the more average. In the modern game, more emphasis is placed on defense. Overall, there are a few strategies for defenders.

Formation:

To begin with the overall team formation, which will outline how many defenders a team has. This is important, and it may seem obvious that the more defenders played the better. Overall, realistically a flat back five is usually the most played for a defense, which will include three central defenders and two fullbacks. Good examples of this are the 5-4-1 formation, which also includes a good midfield. Most formations such as 4-4-2 will also include fullbacks, who can push further forward. However, a 3-5-2 will actually have three central defenders and not include fullbacks. Here, the two wide midfield players sometimes drop back to provide cover. Sometimes, the 3-5-2 formation can include a sweeper who drops deep and brings the ball out from defense.

Marking:

Marking requires the defenders to defend, or cover, a particular spot or player. There are really two types of marking for a defender. These are zone marking and man marking. With zone marking, defenders mark particular zones of the pitch. Man marking requires that the players actually mark a more specific player, usually a striker or forward, regardless of zone. Generally, with man marking forward players may have less space.

Offside trap:

The offside trap is when defenders try to catch other player's offside. Really, the defenders have to pull-up on the forward players at the right moment, and it requires timing. If played offside, then play will be stopped and a free kicks given. If the flag remains down however, then the forward can potentially score a goal.

The long ball:

A long ball, or long clearance, can be played from the defense out to players in the higher third. This really, can ensure that the ball is cleared away from the goal but if not accurate, then a long ball can be received by a player not on the same team. Alternatively, clearances off the pitch can be made so the ball is out of play. However, this can also mean a throw in being given.

Overall, these are a few of soccer strategies for defending. Starting with the formation which will usually have either three defenders, a flat back four, or possibly include five defenders. Then also, with further strategies for marking and other options such as the offside trap or long ball. A team that defends will, will likely win more games than a team that does not.

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