Blocking in soccer: What are the different blocks in soccer?

Blocking in soccer is one of the fastest-growing skills in the game. It can mean physically getting in the way of another player or deflecting the ball from a shot or pass. Block also refers to defensive strategies employed by teams to stop opponents from scoring.

Understanding how to block the ball in soccer is crucial for players when defending and stopping opponents from scoring. It is one of the vital training strategies emphasised by coaches during training. Sports Brief discusses the dynamics of blocking in soccer and what it means.

Blocking in soccer

Blocking is a common defensive tactic in soccer. According to Soccer Blade, there are two main types of blocking in soccer: blocking the ball and the player. Blocking the player involves physically impeding an opponent so they cannot move while blocking the ball involves using your body to prevent the ball from reaching the target.

Blocking shots in soccer

A vital defensive ability used by players, primarily defenders but occasionally midfielders and even forwards, is also called shot blocking or shot stopping. One way to prevent a shot from going in is to stand in the way of the ball and deflect it away from the goal.

Is blocking allowed in soccer?

Blocking is allowed in soccer, but referees can penalise players beyond certain limits. Blocking the ball using any part of the body other than the hands or arm is legal, except for goalkeepers. Players without the ball are not allowed to physically obstruct opponents.

What are the different blocks in soccer?

According to RDF Tactics, teams use various defensive techniques to defend against opponents and stop them from scoring. Critical soccer-blocking abilities include:

Low block

It is one of the most popular strategies often used by the league's most minor technically proficient teams. Within 90 minutes, they can be adjusted to fit various scenarios.

In low blocks, teams stay within their half, moving the defence closer to the goal and limiting spaces for opponents to exploit. Atlético Madrid's manager, Diego Simeone, one of the best football coaches, is a proponent of low blocks. The Argentine likes deploying the 4-4-2 out-of-possession formation, which has brought him success.

Mid-block

According to Coachesvoice, mid-block is an out-of-possession strategy focusing on protecting the middle third of the pitch. The system might collapse if one player messes up because the defence stays in the centre of the field. The approach allows opponents to build with the ball for a while before setting a trap to prevent passes into midfield.

During his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Bruno Lage used mid-block against opponents, transforming his team into a back five without the ball. The wolves' defence was solid when using the system.

High block

The system relies on attacking as a form of defence. According to FIFA, teams use the formation to pin their opponents as far back as possible. High blocks also help put pressure on opponents and force them to make mistakes. The strategy demands a high level of physical activity and strong collaboration.

How to block a goal in soccer

A goalkeeper blocks the ball by punching it with their hand or using their body to stop it from going in. Other players can block the ball if the goalkeeper cannot reach it. Only goalies can use their hands and arms to obstruct the ball in football. It is one of the safest methods of clearing the ball without causing injuries to opponents.

Frequently asked questions

Exploring the list of all blocks in soccer could take a long time, but these are some of the most common ones. Here are some frequently asked questions about soccer blocks.

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NFL

Is blocking a foul in soccer?

When not executed legally, it could be a foul. Players commit fouls when they impede an opponent physically without possessing the ball.

Can you block someone in soccer?

The fact that a striker blocks a defender is not considered a foul if he takes a legitimate position of the ball and does not move. A player has the right to stand practically anywhere he wants without infringing on the space of a defender.

Is body blocking allowed in soccer?

Defenders frequently use their bodies to shield the ball from opponents. However, physically obstructing the opponent with the ball without touching it is not allowed.

What is a low block in soccer?

It is a defensive tactic in which teams form a deep-lying compact unit to limit the space between themselves and the goal, preventing opponents from breaking through.

What is a blocking back in football?

In football, a running back or fullback is called a blocking back if his primary responsibility is to lead the block on rushing plays or pass block on throwing plays. The fullback typically plays the role of offensive blocking back.

Final word

Blocking in soccer is a crucial technique for stopping a pass, shot, cross, or throw-in by opponents. Players use their bodies to stop the ball, but only goalkeepers can use their hands or arms.

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