Forward (association football)

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A forward (also known as a striker) is a player in association football whose primary role is to score goals. Forwards are positioned nearest to the opposing team's goal and are often the focal point of the team's offensive play. They are expected to convert scoring opportunities created by their teammates and to create chances for themselves.

Types of Forwards

Forwards can be categorized into several types based on their playing style and position on the field:

• Centre-forward: The main goal-scorer of the team, often positioned centrally. They are typically strong, tall, and good at heading the ball.
• Second striker: Also known as a support striker, they play slightly behind the centre-forward and are involved in both scoring and assisting goals.
• Winger: Positioned on the flanks, wingers are responsible for delivering crosses into the penalty area and cutting inside to shoot or pass.
• False nine: A centre-forward who drops deep into midfield to create space and confuse defenders.

Roles and Responsibilities

Forwards have several key responsibilities on the field:

• Scoring goals: The primary duty of a forward is to score goals. They must be adept at finishing with both feet and their head.
• Creating chances: Forwards often assist in creating goal-scoring opportunities for their teammates through passes, dribbles, and positioning.
• Pressing: Modern forwards are also expected to press the opposition's defenders and goalkeeper to regain possession high up the pitch.
• Movement: Effective movement off the ball to create space and disrupt the defensive organization of the opposing team.

Skills and Attributes

Successful forwards typically possess a combination of the following skills and attributes:

• Finishing: The ability to convert chances into goals.
• Pace: Speed to outrun defenders and exploit spaces.
• Dribbling: Skill to maneuver past opponents.
• Positioning: Awareness to be in the right place at the right time.
• Heading: Proficiency in scoring with the head.
• Composure: Calmness under pressure to make the right decisions.

Famous Forwards

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

• Pelé
• Diego Maradona
• Lionel Messi
• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Johan Cruyff
• Thierry Henry

Related Pages

• Association football positions
• Midfielder
• Defender (association football)
• Goalkeeper (association football)
• Tactics in football