To the untrained eye, it may seem that all of the players running back and forth on the soccer field are all just trying to get the ball and kick it into the opponent's net to score a goal. In fact, each player on the team is playing a very specific role to contribute to the team. Each position on a soccer team has an important task, and they all work together by doing their own parts to help the whole team win.
Goalkeeper
The goalkeeper position that is most clearly distinguished from the other players is the goalkeeper. Also known as the goalie or keeper, this person guards the goal at the end of the field while the other team tries to get the ball past him to score in the net. The goalkeeper generally stays in the space called the penalty box, which is in front of the goal, but may come out further onto the field. The goalkeeper stands out from the other players on the team because he wears a different variation of the uniform, including special arm pads, according to SoccerHelp.com. He also stands out because he is the only player who may use his hands during on the field during play.
Striker
Not as easily recognizable as goalkeeper, soccer striker is another important position on a soccer team. Unlike the goalie, which focuses on defense, the striker focuses on offense. The job of the striker is to score. The website Soccer-training-guide.com suggests the striker places himself in front of the net so he is ready for every scoring opportunity that arises. Strikers must focus on remaining open so they are ready for passes from their teammates. They also need to be ready to make quick attacks.
Winger
Another position in soccer is the winger. They are so named because they play on the outsides --- or wings --- of the field. According to the website Soccer-for-Parents.com, wingers are generally the best dribblers and fastest runners. They can be forwards or midfielders. Offensively, the primary role of the winger position is to get the ball to the strikers by crossing it from the sides. Defensively, the wingers are responsible for stretching the other team's defense and opening up the center for the striker to score a goal.
Centerback
As their name suggests, centerbacks are positioned in the center of the soccer field. The role of the centerback primarily offensive, but centerbacks can also play offensively and can even score goals. In their position, centerback players are in charge of stopping any of the opposition's attacks. They particularly must focus on stopping attacks that occur right near the box in front of the goal where the goalkeeper is stationed. Sometimes centerbacks leave this position at the center of the field and move forward toward their opponent's goal to aid in offensive plays.
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