Defensive compactness

Keep distances small without giving away important space.

01 / What this means

Defensive compactness

A compact defending team limits usable space between and within its lines and can support one another.

In the game situation14 linked Decision scenarios7 game phases

Position relevanceFB · WBCB · DM · CM · AM · WINGER

Age and developmentADVANCED · PERFORMANCE · SENIORT 3.3 · V 3.1 · D 3.3

02 / Age and development

Age and development

14–16

ADVANCED

A compact defending team limits usable space between and within its lines and can support one another.

PERFORMANCE

A compact defending team limits usable space between and within its lines and can support one another.

18+

SENIOR

A compact defending team limits usable space between and within its lines and can support one another.

03 / What to look for

Common thinking error

Stay close enough to your team-mates.

Do not treat this concept as a fixed action. First read pressure, space, teammates, opponents and game phase.

04 / Related concepts

Related concepts

Perception

Space

Recognise and use free space.

Defending

Pressing

Apply organised pressure to remove time and options.

Defending

Cover shadow

Press while blocking a passing lane behind you.

Team tactics

Rest defence

Be prepared for a possible loss of possession while attacking.

05 / Sources and references

Sources and references

These sources ground concepts and principles. PREPLAYIQ does not copy protected text, video, images or practice designs and makes no approval or partnership claim.

FIFAThe FIFA Football Language

FOOTBALL LANGUAGE → DECISION