FIFA

Defensive pressure

FIFA, 15 Nov 2021

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          An action by an out-of-possession player to close down the player in possession of the ball or a possible receiving option.

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          Attempting to press the ball, or an effort to dictate the direction of an opposition player’s distribution or movement, is deemed to be a defensive pressure event, even if the player does not regain possession.

          For example, an out-of-possession centre-forward can press the opponent’s centre-back, closing down the available space,  forcing them to pass to their full-back. An out-of-possession winger can then recognise that the ball is going to be played to the full-back and can anticipate the opportunity to engage the opponent early before they receive the ball, which is referred to as “pushing on”.

          Even though neither player might win the ball, these are defensive pressure actions that can lead to a defensive event.