The art of winning it back
What happens after possession is lost can define everything that comes next. A closer look at the counter-press.
A moment of opportunity
Counter-pressing begins immediately after a team loses possession. Instead of retreating into a defensive shape, nearby players close down the ball and the available passing options. The aim is to recover possession before the opponent can organise an attack.
A collective response
A lone sprint is not a coordinated press. The nearest player applies pressure while teammates reduce the space around the ball. The Premier League’s tactical guide describes counter-pressing as both a defensive response and a route to creating chances.
Watch the next pass
On your next match night, watch the players just outside the challenge. Our viewing tip: look for who blocks a forward pass and who protects the space behind the press. If the opponent escapes that first wave, the attacking promise can quickly become defensive exposure.