Tactics

False 9

A centre-forward who drops deep into midfield to drag defenders out of position and create space behind.

The false 9 starts as the lone striker in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 but repeatedly drops between the lines to receive possession, leaving the centre-backs without a direct man to mark.

When the opposing defenders follow, the wingers or attacking midfielders run beyond the striker to attack the space the false 9 just vacated. When the defenders stay, the false 9 combines through the middle.

Classic examples include Roma’s Totti in 2007 and the Messi-led Barça side from 2008-2012. The tactic demands a forward comfortable with both short passing and sudden vertical runs.

Try it on the pitch

Start with a 4-3-3 in the builder and drop your number 9 slightly deeper than the wingers.

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Related terms

Tiki-taka Inverted winger

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More tactical concepts

Gegenpressing

A high-intensity pressing scheme that tries to win the ball back within seconds of losing it, high up the pitch.

High line

Pushing the defensive line close to the halfway line to compress the pitch and sustain pressure.

Low block

Defending with all 10 outfield players compact inside your own half, inviting pressure to hit on the counter.

Counter-attack

A fast transition from defending to attacking, aimed at exploiting space before the opponent can regroup.

Tiki-taka

A short-passing, positional style that keeps possession and moves the opponent until gaps open.

Inverted winger

A winger who plays on the opposite side of their strong foot to cut inside and shoot.

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Build the tactic, don’t just read about it

Set up formations and starting XIs to see tactical ideas in action. Free in the browser, deeper on the MyLineups mobile app.

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