No.9--Soccer Defense Again--Valencia vs. Real Murcia

by Soccer Coach Albert M. Luongo

Defense in soccer cannot be overemphasized. I endorse this approach to soccer in many articles and it is worth discussing this topic again. Many years ago after coaching, witnessing and or playing in about a few hundred games it became clear to me that defense wins games. If the defense is solid and making few mistakes, the team has a much better chance to win then by just concentrating on scoring. How can this be, one might ask? It takes goals to win? That goes without question, but when forwards and midfielders are in disarray due to continuous saves by their own goalkeeper, they too usually become in disarray. Naturally, it takes explosive and skillful forwards to score, but they are often neutralized when their whole team is wholly dependent upon these players to save the day.

Now if the defense is in good form, attacking players midfielders and forwards can better concentrate on their job for attacking the goal and not hang back on defense. They often play more as a team as a result. And it is team support, rather than individual players, that usually wins games by giving strong support to the strong attacking players.

One of the obvious problem signs to look for are goals scored (or goals missed) because one or more forward players broke through the defensive line—and defenders are chasing them. Defensive players should act as a shield, thus preventing a clear shot by the attacker. Therefore they should back up with their opponent and not commit themselves endeavoring to tackle the ball. This tactic helps the goalkeeper make predictions as to where to stand if a shot on goal comes. Naturally, there are other tactics needed by defensive players, but they are not germane to this article.

Real Murcia vs.Valencia played on November 11 and the results of the game support what was said above. The score ended 3 to 0 in favor of Valancia. The latter defense was solid. Murcia’s defensemen however, were often chasing Valancia players that were rushing toward their attacking goal—this is an earmark of a weak defense as described above. Even though, Murcia frequently had better control of the ball in midfield, they found Valancia’s defense difficult to penetrate. When Murcia got near the Valancia defense, they had very few clear shots on goal. Yet ,Valancia had better opportunities near the Murcia goal and scored three times as a result of the weaker defense.

A similar situation occurred with the Argentina first division soccer match--Boca Juniors vs.Velez Sarsfield on November 13, 2007. At least two or possibly all four of the goals occurred due to defensive errors of this nature.

When I see games like the above with high scoring shutouts, it is obvious to me that the losing coach is not aware on how to prevent goals. He or she probably is just concentrating on the forward line; that is a mistake. The coach should make it a point to concentrate on the defensive line.

All of the above information is the author's opinion. This article in no way is meant to degrade, discredit or defame any team or person. Its sole purpose is to improve the skills of young soccer players, coaches and the game itself.