Soccer Positions - The 3 Fields of Soccer (Defense, Midfield and Offense)

In the game soccer, foot skills are important but not the only thing that matters. To become a great player you must learn the different soccer positions and what is expected of each player. It is these responsibilities and how well you can fit into them that determine where you are placed.

First, we need to look at the field and where each player belongs. The easiest way to think about soccer positions is to picture four blocks that make up a rectangle. The first block will have your goal in it. This is your defensive territory. Block 2 and 3 are the center of the field. These blocks are called the midfield. Block 4 is where the other team’s goal is. This is referred to as the offensive block (see image).

The players that are positioned in block 1 are called defenders or fullbacks. Their job is to clear the ball from block 1 and 2. They protect both the net and the goalie by stopping the offensive attacks made by the other teams. Typically, the defenders are the biggest players on the field.

Coaches like to use their strength to clear the ball out of the defensive territory. Their height also allows them to stop crosses and corner kicks. Also Defenders have the responsibility to move into block 2 during an attack and help pin the other team in. This is called pushing up.

Block 2 or the midfield is covered by players known as midfielders or halfbacks. These players have the duty of playing both offense and defense and because of this; they have the most amount of running. In block 2, the midfielder offers help to the defense during an attack. They will come back into the defensive end and stop the passes and plays made by their opponents.

They can also open up passes for the defense during this crucial time. When the midfielders move into block 3, the team begins their attack or counterattack. They start working the ball around and looking for the best way openings for the players in block 4. Midfielders are usually the playmakers in the game.

Block 4 is where all the glory is at. The offensive players are called either strikers or forwards. Their job is to get behind the defense and score. Usually, strikers are quick people and always have their eyes on the goal. They also have the least responsibility on the field. When the defense is being pinned in, strikers will move into to block 2 and 3 in hopes of a ball being cleared over the defense. Then it becomes a foot race between the strikers and the other team’s defense.

Each position is important to the team’s success. The defenders protect the net and fight off the other team’s attack. The midfielder plays both defense and offense and is considered the play makers. The strikers score the goals that win the game. Whatever position you think fits you best, you must remember that the four blocks are overlapping and that each player is responsible for both the success and failure of the team.