Teams with a defensive identity succeed far more than a side that does not employ well-thought-out tactics to win the ball back and prevent a goal from being scored.
Defending is an often difficult area of the match that teams will not train as much because, in order to win, you have to score.
While in the context of the game, we tend to associate tactics with offensive styles of play, teams with a defensive identity tend to succeed far more often than a side without.
It is no surprise that the clubs at the top of their respective leagues consistently rank among the top five clubs in terms of goals conceded.
The reason they are elite is because of their complete identity, both defensively and offensively.
For example, Liverpool has the fewest goals conceded with 21 in the Premier League after 31 matches played.
Real Madrid have an identical defensive record, conceding 21 goals in La Liga, and Juventus have the best defence in Serie A.
These three examples from Europe’s top leagues demonstrate the vital importance of defending to a club’s identity.
A manager can employ various defensive blocks and philosophies to differentiate between different identities.
These philosophies include counterpressing, high pressing, pressing traps, zonal marking, etc.
While we could spend days discussing niche tactics in this tactical analysis, this tactical theory piece will focus on three areas of the pitch where a defensive unit is typically stationed.
This tactical theory and total football analysis will examine the advantages and disadvantages of the high, standard, and low blocks, as well as how European teams employ these tactics.
What Is High Block In Football?
The high block, more commonly referred to as the high press or high line, is where a team will put immense pressure on the opposing ball carrier, making the field very compact.
This tactic is typically employed by teams that are on the front foot and utilise the system’s advantages to launch their attacks quickly in transition.
A key feature of the high block is coordinated movement (this claim is true for all successful defences, but the high press requires more movement than other systems).
This requires players to be very disciplined and, most of all, fit.
The high block is a very “high-risk, high-reward” tactical system.
Below is an example of a typical high block in a 4-3-3 formation.
The 4-3-3 is a typical formation when implementing the high press because it allows three forward players to cover the opponent’s back line.
This diagram features a scenario where the red circle is the opposing player with the ball.
The blue team is set up in a 4-3-3 formation when the press initiates.
The arrows show the forwards and midfielders moving toward the ball to close down the space.
The striker will press the ball carrier so that he can not pass to the other centre-back.
The space that is affected during the high press is highlighted in the green zone.
This is the area of the pitch that the defending team hopes to control and trap the team in possession.
An effective high press will force an error that is likely to occur in this zone.
The yellow zone represents the area of the pitch that the defending team is willing to give up during the high press.
Because the player in possession will have to get rid of the ball quickly, he could pass it forward into the yellow zone.
The defending team’s midfield will push forward, creating space behind them, allowing the attacking team to enter that area.
When a team presses, they do so knowing that other spaces will open.
This is typically planned – it is called a pressing trap.
Pressing traps are a common addition to high pressing tactics.
The red zone refers to the area of the pitch that is a danger zone due to the high block.
Because the entire team shifts over, it leaves a lot of space on the other flank.
It is essential not to allow a big switch of play to happen.
Typically, because a high press intends to close down the ball carrier quickly, this does not occur.
However, it is a considerable risk.
It is usually advised not to use a high block against a team whose defenders can hit accurate long balls that can create a switch of play.
A great example of this is Liverpool FC.
If a team presses Liverpool, Virgil Van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Andrew Robertson will bypass the high block with a long ball.
On the other hand, a team like Manchester United may be more susceptible to the high block because Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Luke Shaw are not as gifted at delivering accurate long balls.
Advantages & disadvantages of the high block
The advantages of a high line lie in the distances between the defending side and the opposing team in possession.
Little space creates a much more compact playing area, making it easier to close down the opposition who are trying to find passing lanes.
If the defending players do win the ball back as designed, their positioning will lead to another advantage.
When they win the ball, they are in a position to recycle the ball to the forward line quickly.
Again, there is less space to cover.
Theoretically, passes will be easier due to the distance between them.
If a counter-press pressures the team that just won the ball, it can quickly pass the ball back to the centre-backs.
This will start the next attacking phase.
Disadvantages of this defensive block can occur quickly.
As stated earlier, this is a high-risk, high-reward system.
If the defending team lapses in their defensive line, it can be exposed.
Because the line is high, opposing forwards can get in behind the defenders.
This tactical system can be dangerous if an opposing team has extremely quick wingers or midfielders who are exceptionally talented at playing the long ball.
Furthermore, the high block requires a lot of energy.
If the team employing the high block does not implement high pressure, they waste valuable field positions.
This is why you may not see the high block employed throughout the match, but only in certain situations and periods of the game.
High Block Team Example – Ajax
An example of an effective high block occurs in the tactical analysis below.
Ajax are a team that enjoys pressing the opposing team while staying in their 4-3-3 formation.
They rank highest in the Eredivisie with a PPDA of 7.33.
This means that the average number of passes the opposing team makes per action is 7.33.
Ajax are far better than AZ Alkmaar, who rank second with 10.67 passes.
These statistics demonstrate the effectiveness of Ajax when applying pressure.
Referring back to the earlier diagram, we encounter a similar scenario below, but we just flipped to the other side of the pitch.
Here, Valencia’s centre-back is on the ball and looks to pass the ball laterally to his centre-back partner.
This action triggers the high block into a high press for Ajax.
Once the ball is switched, Ajax’s front three and midfield two immediately begin to shift together.
Notice that each forward marks the defenders while the midfielders shift over to ensure Valencia is trapped on the right side of the pitch.
As the press is in effect, the space highlighted below opens up.
This space is intended to be open, as it was designed.
Valencia’s right back has only one clear passing option: a pass into the space where Ajax wants him to play the ball.
Ajax can win the duel from here, whereas Valencia forward has limited options.
Player Profile of a high block in a 4-3-3
ST
The striker in this formation can be composed of various types of players.
However, for a high block system that focuses on pressing, it is important to have an incredibly energetic and dynamic player in their movements.
This player will be asked to close down on the ball frequently and, if they win the ball, be able to attack with effective forward runs.
A technically gifted player will typically excel in this role, which requires working effectively despite fatigue.
RW/LW
Right and left wingers in this formation are typically extremely gifted players and serve as the team’s primary attacking weapons.
Attributes include tremendous pace and skill.
These players may not be the best defensively, but they will have good awareness in terms of positioning.
They will rarely constantly engage in tackles, yet their defensive positioning will lead to problems for the opposition.
LCM/CM/RCM
The midfield in the 4-3-3 can be very dynamic, and it is up to the manager to decide how they want to create and defend.
For a 4-3-3 that focuses on playing a high block and maintaining high defensive pressure (not all 4-3-3 formations are like this, but it is the case for this tactical theory piece), it is essential to have three energetic midfielders who are extremely aware of their positioning.
The high press starts with the forwards, but can break down if the midfield does not understand their positions.
Typically, the centre of the midfield three will be more of a defensive midfielder by trade who is capable of playing key passes from deep.
On either side of the centre, the manager decides whether to focus on defensive or attacking qualities in these players.
The key is finding the right players who keep balance while also understanding their positions.
LB/RB
The right and left backs in this formation tend to be well-supported by the wings.
Due to the high block, it is unlikely that they will have to face many one-on-one situations or defensive duels.
They will push high up the pitch to provide direct support for the wingers because the midfield three is narrower in the centre of the pitch.
The most crucial attribute defensively is the awareness of the wingbacks.
As explained in the diagram, when the high block is implemented with the press, the opposite wing is left exposed and is dangerous (the red zone in the diagram).
When the team shifts, the left or right back mustn’t get caught too far inward.
LCB/RCB
The centre-backs in this formation and tactic need to be skilled at reading the field of play and communicating with the team.
The centre-back sees everything before him and can trigger the high press.
It is also vital for the centre-backs to control the offside line.
The defensive team can not afford to commit too far forward, or there will be a lot of space behind.
Exceptional pace is an added bonus if a ball gets in behind the back line.
What Is Standard Block In Football?
The second defensive block in this tactical theory piece is the standard block.
Do not be fooled by its simplistic implications, as the standard block can become incredibly complex.
In an effective standard block, if one player loses shape, it affects the whole ecosystem of the defending side.
This defensive system is known as the standard block due to its positioning on the pitch.
The defensive unit is in a more standard area, with the forwards hovering just above the halfway line and the defenders keeping a comfortable distance between them and their goal.
Many managers or coaches who do not focus on defending in their tactics would consider this a fundamental principle.
While that may be true, again, this should not be considered a basic system.
When effective, it can devastate even the world’s most ruthless attacks.
The diagram above explains how the standard block can be effective and where it can be dangerous in terms of spacing on the pitch.
The team is set up in a balanced 4-2-3-1 formation, and the red circles represent the opposing centre-backs, one of whom has the ball.
In the standard block, the manager is likely comfortable giving the opposition time and space while the defenders are in possession.
The yellow zones represent the pitch area that the defending team willingly gives up.
These are passing lanes that are inviting for the opposing centre-backs to play into.
They give up the passing lanes because the two defensive midfielders are stationed at the end to apply pressure.
The green zone is the area of the pitch that is under great control from this defensive set-up.
The two lines of midfielders create a pentagon shape, which will make it incredibly difficult for the attacking team to play through the middle of the pitch.
While the centre of the pitch is more controlled, the wings (marked with a red zone) are likely to be an area of danger for the defence.
This is because it is common for the LAM and RAM to get caught too far up the pitch due to their more attacking nature.
In a match, this formation will likely transition to a 4-3-3.
Advantages & disadvantages of standard block
The standard block has several advantages, including being a highly compact and balanced defensive tactic.
As stated earlier, the team is not too far forward or back, which leads to a nice balance that will allow the team to work attacking transitions seamlessly.
It can be easier to stay in shape because this system requires less energy than a team that presses high up the pitch.
Furthermore, it is easier to maintain possession of the ball when transitioning to an attacking phase due to the numerical advantage in the midfield area.
One disadvantage of this system is that the opposing teams do not exert as much pressure on the ball carrier.
In most instances, a side employing this tactic will invite the opposing team to take them on and try to break down the unit (which could be an advantage too).
However, this system has a significant disadvantage: if one player loses the shape, it affects the entire unit.
While this is true for any defensive system, the standard block puts less pressure on the ball but still allows some space in behind.
Therefore, it is crucial to remain compact.
Standard Block Team example – Bayern Munich
An example of the 4-2-3-1 standard block taking shape occurred when Bayern Munich played Chelsea in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
The image below shows the two pivot players in behind the attacking midfield three creating a very controlled area.
The Chelsea centre-backs are looking for passing options, and the passing lanes are open, but no Chelsea players are present.
This is because Bayern Munich has so much control over their defensive shape.
Similar to Ajax, Bayern Munich has a PPDA of 7.54, indicating their defensive dominance.
In this scenario, Antonio Rudiger really only has a passing option to Marcos Alonso on the wing.
This area is a danger zone, but it is less threatening than giving up space in the middle of the pitch.
These tactics work well for Bayern as they can control the midfield space.
Player Profile of a standard block in a 4-2-3-1
ST
The striker in this formation is typically a true number 9 and a natural goal scorer.
It is less important to have a very creative striker.
This player needs to be able to put the ball in the back of the net.
Typically, managers will prefer this player to be stronger and be capable of being dynamic while in attack.
Defensively, there is not much the number 9 will need to do in the standard block, except shadow defenders to force them to one side of the pitch.
LAM/RAM
These players are typically not as strong defensivel,y but must be aware of their role as outside midfielders when the opposing team is attacking.
If caught too far forward, the defensive midfielders will be exposed.
A reasonable work rate is a key attribute of an effective outside midfielder.
CAM
This position is the heartbeat of the team.
They are responsible for being the main creative spark.
On the defensive side of the ball, it is likely that in a standard block, the CAM will be tasked with putting pressure on the defensive midfielder who gains possession inside the defending team’s half, preventing key passes from being played from deep.
LDM/RDM
It is incredibly important for these players to be extremely strong in tackles and positional awareness while playing defensive midfield.
If they get caught out the advantage of the 4-2-3-1 becomes null.
These pivot players will need to be effective ball carriers and possess a wide passing range when the ball is turned over during an attacking transition.
LB/RB
The left and right backs in this formation tend to be balanced.
It is important for them to be able to decide when to engage the wingers who have possession out wide.
As identified in the diagram, the danger zones are on the wings when defending in the 4-2-3-1 standard block, so it is important for the outside backs to stay in position.
LCB/RCB
Centre-backs need to be strong in the air, as many crosses will come into the box from wide areas.
Attributes such as communication and vision while defending are incredibly important for the centre-back.
Specifically, communicating with the two defensive midfielders will be important.
What Is Low Block In Football?
The final defensive block to be covered in this tactical theory piece is the low block.
The low block is perhaps the least desirable tactic for viewers and managers.
Typically, the clubs with less quality will employ the low block system.
However, there are moments in every match where even high-quality teams will set up in the low block.
This tactical system occurs when the defending team is pushed right back against their own goal.
Each player is in their own half, and the opposing team has the ball well inside the half they are attacking.
This creates an onslaught of attacking sequences, making it difficult for the defending side to manage the match.
Even if they win back possession of the ball, they do not have much space to escape the low block they established.
Teams that are closer to their own goal are more likely to concede.
This is a relatively simple concept: they are likelier to score as the attacking team approaches the goal.
Advantages & disadvantages of low block
The low block has a couple of advantages, but the disadvantages often prevail.
When in the low block, it can make it incredibly difficult for the opposing team to break you down.
Sometimes, attackers lack creativity and struggle with the limited space available to them.
As shown in the diagram above, the low block controls the half-space between the defensive and midfield lines.
Another advantage is the moment when the defending team can launch a counterattack.
The attacking team will sometimes push so many resources forward that they get caught out trying to score a goal.
Moments like these can completely change the tides of a match.
Despite these advantages, the disadvantages outweigh them.
The low block is associated with last-ditch defending, which can lead to immense pressure on your own goal.
The defending teams’ tactics may go to waste without an outstanding keeper performance.
Low Block Team Example – Atlético Madrid
The analysis below will show an example of an effective low block in a 4-4-2 formation.
While Atlético are not deeper in this particular example, the concept and principles of this shape and play transcend to anywhere within their own half.
What makes Madrid so effective is their attention to detail.
Diego Simeone is a mastermind when it comes to defensive tactics and is very demanding of his team.
Both the defensive and midfield lines are in a perfect parallel shape, both horizontally and vertically.
This creates the half-space between them.
They can control the half-space because, even when the attacker is furthest away from either a defender or midfielder, both players are an equal distance away from the attacker.
This allows either the defender or the midfielder to close down the attacker quickly and effectively.
An example of this takes shape as the Real Sociedad midfielder plays the ball into feet of the attacker.
The attacker is trying to occupy the half-space, but Atlético Madrid’s shape is so tight-knit that it is entirely under control.
The defenders and midfielders converge on the ball, forcing the forward into a bad pass.
Even after the bad pass when Kieran Trippier regains possession of the ball, Madrid are already back into their shape.
This is a testament to the level of detail that Atlético exude during their style of play.
Player Profiles while implementing a low block in the 4-4-2
LS/RS
One striker needs to be capable of holding up the ball.
This is because when the team is in an attacking transition, players need time to advance up the pitch to leave the low block.
In this system, a striker who has the physical and technical ability to hold up the ball while withstanding pressure is crucial.
Typically, this player will have strong aerial ability, but does not always have to be a presence in the air.
The other striker can also be capable of holding up the ball but can be more dynamic.
A player who couples a physical striker tends to be more technically gifted and agile.
This is because, as one striker holds up the ball, he can pass to his striking partner.
Therefore, if the other striker is creative and has close control ability, it will lead to a more dynamic attacking sequence.
RCM/LCM
These midfielders must be capable on both sides of the ball, meaning their attacking creativity and defensive urgency must work in harmony.
This is particularly challenging for managers who prefer to deploy a creative midfielder.
However, in a low-block tactical setup, the second striker, who is more technically gifted, can act as this creative player.
In a low block, the team will likely have less possession inherently, eliminating the need for a creative spark to gain an advantage.
Because they will experience less possession, the central midfield players must have great positional awareness.
This will lead to proper spacing and an increased chance of interceptions in the middle of the pitch.
RM/LM
Similar to the centre of the pitch, these outside midfielders need to be capable defensively.
They mustn’t let players in behind if they get caught too far up the pitch.
Due to the low block’s depth, the primary objective of an RM/LM is to prevent early crosses from entering the box.
Since the defending team implementing the low block is so deep, early crosses are a way an attacking team can penetrate the box without getting too close to the goal.
On the other hand, these outside midfielders possess a lot of pace, which is vital while on the counter-attack.
LB/RB
In this tactical setup, the right and left backs must be very capable in one-on-one situations.
Because the defence is compact, the areas of the wing may open up after the attacking team switches play.
This is where the outside-backs will become isolated in a defensive duel.
Winning these duels will prevent the attacking team from entering the box and penetrating the block.
While attacking characteristics such as crossing are helpful, they are not necessary when implementing the low block.
A team implementing a true low block will rarely need wingbacks who make constant overlapping runs to join the attack.
LCB/RCB
These defenders need traits such as aerial ability, leadership, and a good understanding of the game.
Because the centre-backs can see the whole pitch in front of them, they are the last line of defence.
Another point of emphasis is aerial ability – the defending team will likely control the middle of the pitch more effectively due to their numerical advantage and better spacing.
Therefore, attacking teams will likely put crosses into the box on a much higher rate.
Winning headers is incredibly important for any central defender, but even more important when defending the low block.
Finally, these centre-backs must be gifted tacklers of the ball.
Conclusion
This tactical theory analysis explained the three defensive blocks: the high block, standard block, and low block.
Each defensive system has pros and cons, and the decision on which system to play should be determined by the players you have at your disposal and the space you want to give up.
You have to ask yourself: Do my players fit the player profiles of these tactics?
If you try to create an identity that isn’t true to yourself and your players, it won’t be easy to achieve success.
If you examine the top teams in the world of football, their defensive shapes will likely match the players they have in their squads.
Finally, emphasise your defensive tactics as much as your offensive tactics to create a full identity for your team.
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