What is a high press in football?
In the fast-paced world of football, strategies and tactics play a crucial role in determining the outcome of matches. One such tactic that has gained significant popularity in recent years is the high press. But what exactly is a high press in football, and how does it impact the game? Let’s delve into this intriguing concept and explore its significance in modern football.
The high press is a tactical approach where a team applies intense pressure on the opposing team’s defenders in the hope of winning the ball back quickly. The primary objective of this strategy is to disrupt the opponent’s play and force mistakes, thereby creating scoring opportunities for the pressing team. The term “high press” refers to the fact that the pressing team’s players are positioned relatively close to their own goal, thereby reducing the distance between themselves and the opposing defenders.
This tactic requires a high level of fitness, tactical discipline, and coordination among the players. The pressing team’s forwards, midfielders, and even some defenders will converge on the opposing defenders, attempting to intercept passes, win back possession, and create a numerical advantage in the attacking third.
The high press can be categorized into different types, such as the positional press, the man press, and the zonal press. In the positional press, players stay in their assigned positions and press the opponents accordingly. The man press involves marking specific opponents, while the zonal press is a combination of both positional and man marking, where players cover specific areas of the pitch.
The high press has several advantages. Firstly, it can lead to a higher number of turnovers, as the pressing team puts constant pressure on the opposing team’s defenders. Secondly, it can disrupt the opponent’s rhythm and make it difficult for them to build up their play. Lastly, it can create space for the pressing team’s forwards and midfielders to exploit, as the opposing defenders are occupied with their marked players.
However, the high press also has its drawbacks. It requires a high level of energy and concentration, which can lead to fatigue over the course of a match. Additionally, if the pressing team is not well-organized, it can leave gaps in their defense, allowing the opposing team to exploit these weaknesses.
Several top clubs and national teams have successfully implemented the high press in their play. For instance, Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool FC has been renowned for its high-pressing style, which has contributed to their success in the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. Similarly, Spain’s national team, under the guidance of coaches like Vicente del Bosque and Luis Enrique, has used the high press to dominate international football.
In conclusion, the high press is a tactical approach that involves intense pressure on the opposing team’s defenders. While it has its advantages and disadvantages, the high press has become a crucial element in modern football, helping teams win matches and achieve success on the pitch. As the game continues to evolve, we can expect to see more teams adopting this innovative strategy.
