Defensive success is first and foremost based on quality 1 vs. 1 defending. Getting pressure on the player with the ball is vital to give the team sufficient time to organise the defense. Only when this pressure takes place can the remainder of the team to get ‘goal side’ of their opponent and become compact (take away space and passing opportunities for the attacking team). There are three key principles to successful 1 vs. 1 defending:

1. Quick Pressure-The player nearest the ball must “close the space” as quickly as possible as soon as the ball is played to his opponent. You should close ground on your opponent as the ball is traveling to the attacker, do not wait until he/she has received the ball. The defender has three priorities: Intercept the pass if you can anticipate the attackers’ actions. Challenge the First touch so that you can “steal” the ball if your opponent has a poor first touch. Contain the attacker by denying space to turn or pass in a penetrating manner.

2. Touch Tight Pressure- When closing down space, it is important that you don’t overrun the play. Slow down as you approach the attacker and gradually take away the remaining space in a controlled defensive position. Position yourself in a way that will direct the attacker toward the sideline. You want to be in a close enough position that the attacker feels uncomfortable, and if he makes a mistake you can win the ball and that will cut off forward and inside passing lanes, making play more predictable for your supporting defenders.

3. Patient Pressure- Good defenders will recognize that they do not need to win the ball immediately. If you approach the attacker quickly and under control, taking away his space, you will shift the initiative to the attacker. Most attacking chances are created through poor and impatient defending.

General rules for “Patient pressure” are:
Don’t Dive In
-Be Cool and Alert Be ready to tackle
-Tackle with Confidence (Be quick and hard enough in tackle)

Something to consider- One of the best times to win the ball back is in the moments after you’ve given away possession. If you can get immediate pressure on the ball from the defensive player closest to the ball, often the player who just lost it, the attacking team won’t be as organized and will likely turn the ball over. In a worst case scenario you can eliminate their ability to play forward.

Common Mistakes in Young Defenders

Failure to get touch tight. Concede too many options to the attacker (shots, penetrating passes, etc.)

Failure to show patience. Try to win the ball too often and too early. Defenders need to learn to control their momentum. Let the attacker make a mistake and then pounce.

Poor Transition. Young players drop their heads on loss of possession and leave their teammates prone to the counter-attack.

Try these youtube videos:
https://youtu.be/ngZehESDEdM
https://youtu.be/ysQbqpdo8Os