Pressing: Controlling Space Without the Ball

Pressing determines how aggressively your team attempts to win the ball back after losing possession. It affects fitness, defensive line height, and exposure to counter-attacks.

Core Principle

Pressing must always align with formation structure and defensive numbers.

Pressing Options Explained

Option	Description	Best Use
Don’t Press	Minimal engagement	Weaker teams, deep counter setups
Sit Deep	Compact defensive block	Absorbing pressure, protecting leads
Balanced Pressing	Moderate engagement	Balanced formations and tactics
Close Down Opposition	Aggressive midfield press	Strong teams with good qualities
Press High Up the Pitch	Ultra-aggressive press	Attacking formations, wing play

Don’t Press

Behaviour: Team waits in defensive shape; minimal pressure on ball carrier
Best Used When: Facing much stronger opponents; using 5 or 6 defenders; preserving fitness
Risk: Opponent dominates possession; requires disciplined marking

Sit Deep

Behaviour: Defensive line drops closer to goal; compresses space between defense and midfield
Best Used When: Playing defensively; protecting a lead; counter-attack strategies
Key Advantage: Reduces space behind defenders, making through-balls ineffective

Balanced Pressing

Behaviour: Selective pressure; maintains shape
Best Used When: Facing equal opponents; using balanced formations; playing possession football
Why It Works: Allows reaction without overcommitment

Close Down Opposition

Behaviour: Presses ball carrier quickly; reduces opponent decision time
Best Used When: Strong teams; midfield-heavy formations; medium-to-high tempo; requires compact lines, not just quality
Risk: Exposes space behind pressing line if bypassed

Press High Up the Pitch

Behaviour: High defensive line; immediate pressure on opponent defenders
Best Used When: Attacking formations; Wing Play; when chasing goals
High Risk: Fast counter-attacks become extremely dangerous

Pressing Example

Formation: 4-3-3B
Pressing: Press High Up the Pitch
Game Plan: Wing Play
Outcome: Forces opponent mistakes; high ball recovery; vulnerable to long balls and fast counters