Even though the premises of football seem simple - throwing the ball into the opponent's goal - the strategies are endless. Think of football as a study area; to fully understand it, you will have to immerse yourself in it by playing as many games as possible. Only by understanding the intricacies of the game can you truly enjoy a game.
Steps
Step 1. Watch out for diagonal cuts behind the defense
A center forward who runs diagonally behind a defender, for example with a 10-meter sprint, at the right time, prepares to receive the ball. Is the defense deployed in the zone and does the attacker's marking pass to another defender? Is the player in possession of the ball pressed or is he free to pass?
Step 2. See how a third man's dash can open the game
A midfielder and an attacker could exchange a few passes until a defender (the third man) dashes to the goal, who crosses the opponent's defensive line to receive the ball and surprise her from a distance.
Step 3. Observe how the static and dynamic one-twos open up the defense
A player may perform a standing one-two only to maintain possession of the ball if the defense is pressing him (static), or he may play the ball and then sprint to receive it back deep. Keeping the ball moving releases the pressure and opens up the gaps. Quick passes (the ball moves much faster than any player) undermines the defenses.
Step 4. Find out how switching games gives players more time and space
After two or three passes on one side of the field, the defense is able to close all the spaces, and it is on these occasions that a long pass to a full-back or a winger on the other side of the field is necessary. In technical jargon this is called a "game changer" - a long horizontal pass that forces the defense to run to the other side of the pitch. This game change, when done intelligently, can surprise the other team, and create scoring chances or cross chances.
Step 5. Learn how counter attacks can lead to scoring chances
Teams often defend by deploying all players behind the ball line and leaving only one tall striker ready to restart when possession is regained.
Step 6. Learn to appreciate long balls in football
See how the best players are able to get past the defensive lines with a perfect long pass. The attacker will control the ball and allow his teammates to move up. Or, he will have the option of going to the goal directly or making an assist.
Step 7. Observe how overlaps create cross opportunities
A full-back can run to the outside of the lateral midfielder, who has cut inwards and participate in the offensive maneuver. A good cross can create a scoring opportunity.
Step 8. Notice how position changes open up space or time for a shot or pass
A player can carry the ball to a teammate and exchange it with him, while making a block for his marker.
Step 9. Enjoy the blind passage
Watch out for heel strikes, made by looking in one direction and playing the ball in another, or passes made in the opposite direction to dribbling. Also note the steps that did not seem necessary to you but unmark a teammate with an empty net.
Step 10. Enjoy the most exciting play in football, dribbling
Observe how the players change pace after touching the ball, making a feint. You will see fake shots, or slight shoulder movements followed by sudden jerks.
Advice
- Start playing football too! Putting yourself in the shoes of a footballer will help you see the pitch from his perspective and you will understand the reason for certain tactical choices.
- Watch the matches in a bar or stadium, to get involved in the atmosphere and excitement.
- Learn from the best coaches and players.
