Soccer is one of the most popular global sports and is becoming more popular in the U.S. With this comes an interest in finding out more about soccer positions and how they work. The game of soccer keeps evolving as coaches and players find new ways to get an edge over their rivals.
Basic soccer positions
In a game of soccer, there are 11 players on each team. Ten of these are outfielders, including forwards, midfielders and defenders. The 11th player is the goalkeeper. The midfielders are generally the most versatile players as they help with both defense and offense.
Increasing interest in soccer is also leading to more betting on the game. Online sports betting is now legal in many US states. Sports bettors usually check on what strategies soccer teams are running before making bets.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper is responsible for protecting the goal and must prevent the other team from scoring. This is a mostly reactive position although goalkeepers will sometimes run forward. As opposition players attempt to score a goal, the goalkeeper must try to fend off or catch the ball. It can be a stressful position as there’s a lot of pressure to perform well.
A mistake on the part of the goalkeeper can cause the team to lose. Goalkeepers are the last line of defense and are the only players who can use their hands to block shots or catch the ball.
Defenders
Defenders play at the back of the field near the goalkeeper. They will try to prevent any opposition players from getting close enough to score a goal. Center backs cover the field right in front of the goalkeeper. They lead the defense and communicate with the other defenders. Sometimes, teams will use two or three center backs.
Outside backs cover the wings. Defenders can transition from one area to another to defend teammates. They just need to ensure they don’t leave their area exposed so opponents can score a goal. Many outside backs also offer offensive support in wide areas in the modern game. Andrew Robertson of Liverpool is an example of this.
Midfielders
Midfielders require a lot of stamina. When they play in extreme conditions, it tests their endurance and adaptability. They are expected to perform well as defenders and offenders.
Midfielders occupy different positions. A defensive midfielder is positioned in front of the defenders and will tackle opposing players and cover other midfielders. The center midfielder has an overall view of what’s happening and is often seen as the engine room of the team. They must be adept at tackling and passing. The attacking midfielder is responsible for connecting the midfield to the attack. They play between the center mid and forwards, creating opportunities for strikers to score.
Jude Bellingham is currently a midfielder who shows great adaptability. He can play as a false nine or central midfielder and occasionally functions as a left midfielder.
Forwards
The term forwards encompass a range of different positions. The forwards are usually the players who receive the most praise. There is a center forward and a left and right winger. Most eyeballs are always on the center forward. The forwards must overcome multiple players from the opposing team to score a goal. Forwards may also be referred to as strikers.
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are outstanding players who have had long careers and are still current soccer superstars. Kylian Mbappé, Erling Harland, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham are some other current superstars.
Are those the only positions?
For Americans accustomed to the fast pace of basketball and the showmanship of football, soccer may initially not seem as exciting. However, soccer is a very deep and strategic game. The challenge and intrigue come from the strategy each team is playing and how this affects the overall game.
Each strategy must consider the team’s weaknesses and the strengths of the opposing team. Soccer formations can vary dramatically. Every strategy has a different number of defenders, midfielders, and forwards. The positions matter to players who all have different strengths and weaknesses. Some may be better all-round players while others are particularly suited to defense or offense.
