Skill: Defending

The defender is one who cannot afford to take risks when attempting to win the ball. This is because one small mistake could result in a goal for the opponent, especially if the culprit is the last man in defence. Thus, a defender's main objective is to keep the opponent in front of you and prevent telling passes or penetrating dribbles from being made.

One-on-One

Goalside positioning

Always position yourself goal-side, between the opponent you are marking and your goal post. This shuts off the most direct route to goal for the attacker and gives you a good view at all times.

Approach the ball

Close the distance between yourself and the opponent when he is about to receive the ball. slow down as you reach him to maintain your balance and control.

Defensive stance

Assume a slight crouched position with your knees flexed. From this position, somewhat like the goalkeeper's ready position, you can easily move in any direction. Position your legs in a staggered stance with one leg ahead of the other, which saves you from being nutmegged.

Preventing the turn

Try to prevent the opponent from turning with the ball to face your goal, as he can pass or dribble on.

Tackle the ball, not the legs

When you feel that you have allowed the opponent with the ball to get too far away, get in close, then tackle hard to gain position of the ball. Do not overcommit in the effort as you may be beaten on the dribble.

Tackling Skills

Block Tackle

  1. Close the distance and assume defensive stance.
  2. Draw blocking foot and position it sideways.
  3. Face the dribbler, shoulders squared.
  4. Move momentum forward and drive blocking foot through the ball.
  5. Keep your foot firm as you push the ball forward past the opponent.
  6. When you have possession, initiate the counterattack.

Poke Tackle

  1. Close the distance and assume the defensive stance.
  2. Extend tackling foot.
  3. Flex balance leg.
  4. Poke the ball with your toes.
  5. Withdraw leg to avoid contact with dribbler.
  6. Chase and regain possession of the ball.

Slide Tackle

  1. Approaching from the side, slide on your side with your arms extended out to the sides for balance.
  2. Extend lower leg, with your upper leg flexed at the knee.
  3. Use the instep of the lower leg to hit the ball away.
  4. Try to avoid dribbler.
  5. Jump to feet and collect the ball if possible.