Set pieces such as corners, free kicks, and throw-ins provide key scoring opportunities in soccer. With space and time to craft clever routines, they can unlock the tightest defenses. As such, set pieces account for over a third of all goals scored. This means defending them effectively is vital for any team’s success. In particular,…
Soccer is a sport where a single mistake by a defender can lead to conceding a goal and often determining the outcome of a match. As such, having rock-solid defenders is crucial for any successful soccer team. But what makes for an elite defender at the top level? In this article, we will explore the…
As a young soccer player learning the art of defending, few things are more important than mastering proper positioning. Many goals scored against youth teams can be traced back to defenders being caught out of position. Smart, disciplined positioning prevents attacking players from finding dangerous space while allowing you to win back possession. Let’s examine…
Master the Basics First Being an excellent defender starts with having a solid foundation of fundamental skills. Many young players want to skip ahead to flashy advanced moves, but truly mastering the basics is the key to continued improvement. Here are the core competencies every aspiring soccer defender should focus on first: Body Positioning and…
Soccer is a team sport that requires players to excel in both attacking and defending. While strikers get most of the glory for scoring goals, defenders play a crucial role in stopping the opposition from finding the back of the net. There are several types of defenders in soccer, each with specialized duties on the…
Soccer strikers are often the most exciting players to watch on the pitch. With their lethal finishing abilities, raw power, and skill to create chances out of nothing, strikers are usually the ones scoring the most memorable goals and stealing the headlines. Their talents make them fan favorites across the globe. But who are the…
