The Modern Game and the Importance of the Pocket

FutWise is dedicated to nurturing soccer players' development. Our team comprises passionate experts committed to sharing valuable insights across all levels of the game. From training techniques to mental preparation, we offer comprehensive guidance. Join us in our journey to explore the world of soccer together.

Read time: 3 minutes.

The Pocket: A Key Space

The pocket is an area of space between four players, typically consisting of the opponent's midfield line and back line. A player looks to receive the ball behind the two central midfielders and in front of the two center defenders. Alternatively, they can receive it in front of the outside back and the center back, but behind the center midfielder and the winger, on either side of the pitch. Great players excel at finding these spaces and receiving the ball from teammates, allowing them to advance with control.

This approach gives the team more control of the ball and increases the success rate of their passes. It forces opponents to make a decision: either go with the player to stop them from receiving the ball (risking a ball in behind), or leave them open to receive and potentially play a dangerous pass. It requires skillful close touches from the player, but done consistently, it creates significant difficulty for the opposing defense. This is why receiving the ball in the pocket is so impactful in the modern game.

Three Ways to Receive in the Pocket

There are three ways to receive the ball in the pocket: at the bottom, at the top, and on the move to the outside.

Receiving at the Bottom: Players like Phil Foden excel at receiving at the bottom of the pocket, which is just behind the midfielders and far from the defenders. This space allows them to turn after receiving the ball and drive at the defense or play a pass between the lines for a forward to run onto. This is a common tactic in professional games, used by attacking midfielders or wingers dropping deep. Receiving at the bottom is a great way to break defensive lines and advance with control.

Receiving at the Top: Receiving at the top of the pocket is done closer to the defenders, typically by the striker or attacking midfielder who uses a double movement to create space before receiving the ball. Due to the close proximity of defenders, turning and facing them can be difficult. Therefore, a third player is often involved, receiving a light pass to then face the defenders and drive with the ball or look for a pass from a winger or a teammate making a run. Liverpool utilized this tactic effectively with Bobby Firmino playing as a false nine. When done correctly, the speed of this play can be overwhelming for defenders. It makes them think they can reach the ball, but then the player sets it up for a teammate, leaving them dangerously out of position.

 Receiving on the Move to the Outside: This option is typically used for a bounce pass to an open teammate and can be done anywhere on the field. It's a great way for a team to escape pressure. When under pressure or outnumbered, a player can step out of the pocket, receive the ball on the move, and find an open teammate, stretching the opposition. Sergio Busquets was a master at this during his prime at Barcelona. Whenever opponents thought they had them pinned down, he would step up and switch the ball to an open teammate, forcing the opposition to constantly chase the play.

The Future of Attacking Play

Receiving the ball in the pocket has revolutionized the game, allowing teams to break down defenses without resorting to difficult aerial balls for the striker. As the game continues to evolve, with players and coaches finding new ways to attack, what will be the next creative tactic to advance the ball and create scoring opportunities?