Tactics
A defensive scheme where each defender is responsible for a specific opponent rather than a zone.
Man-marking predates zonal marking and still appears in modern football, especially on set pieces or on creative number 10s who need to be silenced.
The upside is clarity: you always know who you are chasing. The downside is that a skilful opponent can drag you out of shape, creating space in behind or in midfield.
Hybrid systems mix zonal and man-marking: a low block defends zones while one or two defenders track a specific star. Atlético under Simeone have used variants of this for years.
Discover
False 9
A centre-forward who drops deep into midfield to drag defenders out of position and create space behind.
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.
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Set up formations and starting XIs to see tactical ideas in action. Free in the browser, deeper on the MyLineups mobile app.