Being a soccer defender may not be the most glamorous role on the team, but it is one of the most demanding. It requires both mental and physical ability, as well as great concentration and positional awareness. When an opponent is coming toward your goal, it is your job to deny him a goal scoring opportunity. One mistake and you could be picking up the ball from the back of your own net.
Assess the Threat
When an opposing player is coming toward your goal, you must first assess the threat. Consider your position on the field: how close are you to your own goal? You also need to take into account your opponent's ability: Is he a skillful dribbler or does he like to pass? Finally, the position of your teammates is vital. Do you have support or are you the last defender?
Sliding Tackle
If your opponent is slow or seems to lack ball control, a well-timed sliding tackle can quickly end the attack. Watch the ball carefully as you approach the defender. When you see the opportunity to win the ball cleanly, slide in and scoop the ball away with one outstretched leg. Be very careful, as a mistimed sliding tackle could lead to a foul and a free kick to your opponents close to your own goal. Even worse, it could lead to a penalty kick. Furthermore, never launch a sliding challenge from behind your opponent. This is dangerous and potentially illegal, especially if you slide in with both feet.
Block Tackle
A block tackle is a safer option than a sliding challenge. Let the defender come toward you, but remain on your feet. As he attempts to take the ball past you, block the ball with one foot. Balance is vital when executing a block challenge. Support most of your weight on one standing foot, leaving the other free to make the challenge. If you are flat-footed, a skillful opponent will take the ball straight past you.
Contain
Tackling is always risky if you are the last defender. If your opponent beats you, she will have a clear run at your goal. An effective counter in this situation is to contain, or jockey, your opponent. The idea here is to force the attacker away from your goal without making a tackle. By staying on your feet, you can attempt to steer the player away from the danger zone. According to the Expert Football website, you should approach the ball carrier at a 45-degree angle and force her toward the sideline. Move with your opponent and resist the temptation to attack the ball. This strategy helps to reduce the threat while buying time for your teammates to get back and support, making it a good option if you are the last defender.
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