Defender (association football)

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Defender (association football)

A defender in association football is a player positioned at the back of the formation, whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring goals. Defenders are crucial to a team's defensive strategy and are responsible for intercepting passes, blocking shots, and marking opponents.

Types of Defenders

Defenders can be categorized into several types based on their specific roles and positions on the field:

Centre-back

A centre-back (also known as a central defender or central back) is positioned in the central part of the defense. Their main task is to block the opposing team's forwards and prevent them from getting close to the goal. Centre-backs are often tall and strong, excelling in aerial duels and tackles.

Full-back

A full-back is positioned on either side of the defense. Full-backs are responsible for defending against the opposing wingers and providing support to the central defenders. They also often participate in the attack by overlapping with the wingers and delivering crosses into the opponent's penalty area.

Wing-back

A wing-back is a more attacking variant of the full-back. Wing-backs play a dual role, contributing to both defense and attack. They are usually found in formations that use three central defenders, allowing them to push forward more frequently.

Sweeper

A sweeper (or libero) is a defender who plays behind the main line of defense. The sweeper's role is to "sweep up" any balls that get past the other defenders. This position requires excellent reading of the game and the ability to make crucial interceptions and clearances.

Roles and Responsibilities

Defenders have several key responsibilities on the field:

• **Marking:** Defenders must closely mark opposing players, especially forwards, to prevent them from receiving the ball and creating scoring opportunities.
• **Tackling:** Effective tackling is essential for dispossessing opponents and regaining control of the ball.
• **Interceptions:** Defenders need to anticipate passes and intercept the ball to disrupt the opponent's play.
• **Aerial Duels:** Winning headers in both defensive and attacking situations is crucial, particularly during set-pieces like corners and free-kicks.
• **Positioning:** Good positioning helps defenders cover spaces and support their teammates, ensuring a solid defensive structure.

Famous Defenders

Some of the most renowned defenders in the history of football include:

• Franz Beckenbauer - Known for his role as a sweeper and his exceptional leadership.
• Paolo Maldini - A versatile defender who excelled as both a centre-back and a left-back.
• Franco Baresi - A legendary centre-back known for his tactical intelligence and defensive prowess.
• Cafu - A dynamic right-back famous for his attacking runs and defensive reliability.

Related Pages

• Association football positions
• Centre-back
• Full-back
• Wing-back
• Sweeper (association football)
• Football tactics and skills