Progress Through
Balanced
- A balanced progression strategy.
- No strong preference.
The squad is not tied to a specific zone for build-up; instead, players are granted the freedom to adapt their creative decision-making based on the flow of the match.
Core Strengths
- Increased attacking unpredictability.
- Empowers players to utilize individual match intelligence.
Potential Risks
- May fail to capitalize on identified spatial weaknesses in the opposition shape.
Middle
- Progress play through middle.
- Players in middle position higher.
Directs the In Possession (IP) strategy to funnel progression through the center. Central playmakers receive higher attacking priority, with teammates instructed to prioritize vertical passes into the heart of the pitch.
Core Strengths
- Overloads central zones and tests opposing defensive midfielders.
- Facilitates more frequent ball progression to primary creative hubs.
Potential Risks
- Offensive patterns become easier for the opponent to anticipate.
- Susceptible to negation by strong central defensive blocks.
Left
- Progress play through left flank.
- Players on left flank position higher.
Targets the left flank for offensive build-up. Players positioned on the left are tasked with increased attacking duties, while teammates shift their distribution to favor that wing.
Core Strengths
- Creates concentrated pressure on the opponent's right-sided defensive unit.
- Regularly feeds attacking wide players to stretch the opposition.
Potential Risks
- Predictable attacking direction allows the opposition to adjust their OOP shape.
- Can be neutralized by capable full-backs or wing-backs on the opponent's side.
Right
- Progress play through right flank.
- Players on right flank position higher.
Instructs the team to utilize the right wing as the primary conduit for progression. Players on the right are given greater license to attack, with a recurring focus on playing balls into this zone.
Core Strengths
- Applies significant pressure to the opponent’s left defensive side.
- Consistency in channeling play through right-sided attacking assets.
Potential Risks
- Directional predictability makes it simpler for the opposition to shift cover.
- Vulnerable to high-performing defenders guarding that flank.
Both Flanks
- Progress play through both flanks.
- Players on both flanks position higher.
Utilizes the full width of the pitch during build-up by targeting both flanks. Players on either side are tasked with higher attacking involvement, supported by a tactical preference for wide distribution.
Core Strengths
- Stretches the opposition backline and tests wide defensive stability.
- Ensures consistent ball delivery to wide areas for crossing or dribbling opportunities.
Potential Risks
- Reduces variety in attacking build-up, becoming easier to read.
- Potential for frustration if the opposition’s wide defensive coverage is superior.