Tactical analysis of different kick-off strategies

Set piece situations play a vital role in modern football. That is the reason why practicing corner-kicks and free-kicks has become common. However, there is one set piece situation which often gets overlooked: the kick-off.

More and more sides utilise this set piece as an opportunity to execute their match plan from the first minute. The following tactical analysis will explain the importance of the kick-off as well as examine different kick-off strategies.

Rules of the kick-off

There do exist some myths about the rules concerning a kick-off. To understand all options when kicking off, one needs to take a look at the laws first. Different to throw-ins and indirect free-kicks, a goal may be scored directly from the kick-off according to FIFA. This allows teams to shoot with the first touch and thereby surprise the opposition goalkeeper.

But there are other vital rules which define the way a side can kick off.

The kicker must not touch the ball again until it has touched another player.“ (FIFA)

Therefore, dribbling with the ball is not allowed and an interplay between at least two players is necessary when kicking off.

All players must be in their own half of the field of play.“ (FIFA)

This rule affects the starting position of each player. Due to this law, one cannot position further up the pitch before the whistle. That differs the kick-off from free-kicks in midfield.

The psychological aspect of the kick-off

The point of time of a kick-off sets the kick-off apart from all other set piece situations. As a team only get a kick-off at the beginning of a match or the second half, or after conceding a goal, kick-offs are executed in psychologically important moments of the game.

Therefore, teams can use the kick-off to demonstrate dominance and self-confidence. It is also possible to unsettle the opposition with a promising attack.

Last but not least, concentration plays a key role when kicking off. Many sides lack concentration within the first minute of a match. One can penalise this by attacking right away. On the other hand, one can avoid missing concentration by allocating clear roles for every player during the own kick-off routine. This forces every player to focus on their task right from the beginning.

Controlling the match right from the start

The most common concept when kicking off is to secure possession. Most teams therefore play back passes to their defenders who have full sight of the pitch. Especially for sides which like to dominate the game in possession, this is a sensible approach. Manchester City for example keep possession in the picture below.

By keeping possession, Pep Guardiolas side take in their attacking organisation.

However, this strategy also holds a disadvantage. The opposition can move up the pitch and press the team in possession in their half if they aim at pressing high up the pitch.

The common strategy to kee