The art of tackling is an integral part of the defensive side of soccer. Soccer tackles aren't the same as you'd see in a U.S. football game because the upper body is not involved. However, the tackles can be equally as aggressive. Tackling is primarily the responsibility of defensive players to thwart an offensive attack, but all players must learn the skill to help keep the offense at bay.
Features
A soccer tackle is designed to knock the ball away from the opposing player to try and regain ball control for your team. Tackles are more prevalent as the ball moves closer to either goal and the defense is more desperate to prevent a shot on goal. Tackles still occur in the neutral area of the field, but they usually have less intensity than tackles made closer to the goal. A soccer tackle might resemble a quick, stand-up poke with a defender's leg or a full-on baseball slide.
Types of Tackles
Four basic types of soccer tackles are used regularly during a game. A front block tackle is used in close quarters as your opponent tries to move past you with the ball. You use the inside of your foot with a powerful thrust to knock the ball away and prevent him from getting by. The slide block tackle is made with a reaching, outstretched leg after your opponent has already made it by you with the ball. It is important to time a side block tackle well to avoid a yellow or red card. When you are unable to execute a front block or side block tackle, a ground block tackle consists of throwing your body into the ball to prevent your opponent from getting by. The final type of tackle is a sliding tackle, which should be used as a last resort to prevent the opposing player from getting by. As the name suggests, you slide your body along the ground and must time it to kick the ball away with your outside leg without tripping the other player.
Dangers
Because soccer moves at a high speed, injuries are possible when making tackles. No matter which tackle you try to make, the potential to trip the other player or kick an ankle, knee or calf muscle is always present. Poorly executed tackles can result in knee or ankle injuries, or even broken legs if the collision is violent enough.
Pressuring the Offense
Putting pressure on the offensive players is important to set up your tackles and regain control of the ball. As the opposing player approaches you with the ball, face him with your shoulders square and wait for the ball to get far enough ahead of him to make your move. If he is a skilled dribbler and the ball seems to stay right at his feet, at least stay between him and your goal to prevent a shot.
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