How to Maintain Team Shape in Soccer

Unlike basketball, hockey or American football where a single superstar player can dominate a game, soccer requires team unity to succeed. Rarely in soccer will a single player be able to win a match without the aid of teammates. Indeed, there are exceptions to this rule, as Leo Messi and Christiano Ronaldo illustrate; however, the key to success for the average soccer team is playing as a single unit. To create this understanding between teammates, team shape must be maintained, both in attack and in defense.

Instructions

  1. In Attack

    • 1

      Keep possession. In order to keep all players in their respective positions, ball possession is required.

    • 2

      Understand your position. Every player must understand his role on the pitch. If a player roams too far out of position, the entire team's shape will be directly affected.

    • 3

      Watch your teammates. Each player must instinctively know where the other 10 players are on the pitch. More specifically, each player on the pitch has three partners. For example, the central midfielder must be aware of his fellow central midfielder's position as well as the adjacent winger and one of the forwards (depending on the formation used). By keeping a keen eye on where your teammates are, you can adjust your own shape accordingly.

    • 4

      Look for open space. Team shape requires the team to move up and down the field as a single unit. In order to move forward, players (especially midfielders) need to find open space on the pitch in order to continue the forward movement. In attack, the midfielders play an important role both in the final third of the pitch and within the penalty area.

    • 5

      Spread out play. If a team is in a position where the balance of play is predominantly through the middle of the pitch, it is essential for the wide players (the wingers and the fullbacks) to move into wider positions. Not only will this allow your team to maintain its shape, but you will also be able to exploit your opponent's weak spots.

    • 6

      Cover for your teammates. If a defensive player pushes forward, it is the responsibility of a midfield player to cover for the attack.

    • 7

      Remain patient. Don't take a chance on a lower percentage play when you can maintain possession by passing the ball around, allowing you to wait for the perfect opportunity to push forward.

    In Defense

    • 8

      Avoid closing down the opponents, at least initially. When you lose possession, keep in mind your team shape, as your opponents may be able to exploit your weaknesses, especially if they are playing a counterattack.

    • 9

      Wait for your opponents to come to you. A simple zone defense will force your opponents to come to you, as opposed to immediately closing them down. By using a zone defense, your team will maintain its shape, which will encourage the opponents to take chances, which -- more often than not -- will result in turnover in favor of your team.

    • 10

      Keep an eye on your teammates. When your center backs push forward in an attempt to catch the opponent off-sides, it is essential that everyone on the team is on the same page. If one player fails to push forward for the off-sides trap, the play will fail, resulting in a legitimate goal opportunity at your end.

    • 11

      Remain patient. Don't force the play; let your opponents make the first mistake.