Anticipation is a critical skill in soccer, particularly for defenders and midfielders and in this article we’ll explain how to get better at anticipating moves before they happen.
Anticipation refers to the ability to read the game, anticipate the movements of opposing players, and position oneself accordingly to intercept passes or make tackles.
Anticipation is important in soccer for several reasons:
React quickly
It allows players to react quickly: Anticipation enables players to be one step ahead of their opponents, allowing them to react quickly to changes in the game and make decisive plays.
Reducing risk
It reduces the risk of conceding goals: By anticipating the movements of opposing players and intercepting passes, defenders can prevent their opponents from getting into dangerous scoring positions, reducing the risk of conceding goals.
Creating opportunities
It creates scoring opportunities: Anticipation is not just important for defenders, but for attacking players as well. Forwards who can anticipate the movements of their teammates and the opposing defense can create scoring opportunities by making runs into open spaces or positioning themselves to receive a pass.
Shift momentum
It can shift the momentum of the game: A well-timed interception or tackle can swing the momentum of a game in favor of the team that makes the play, giving them a psychological advantage over their opponents.
Center backs and anticipation
Center backs play a crucial role in defense in football, and anticipation is an essential skill that they use to read the game and predict their opponents’ moves.
Here are some ways center backs use anticipation in football:
- Reading the opponent’s body language: Center backs use their experience and knowledge of the game to analyze their opponents’ body language, looking for clues as to their next move. They pay attention to the way their opponents position themselves, their body shape, and how they’re moving to anticipate where they might go next.
- Analyzing the game situation: Center backs also anticipate the game situation to be able to position themselves optimally. They keep track of the score, time remaining, and other factors such as weather conditions and crowd noise that could affect the game’s flow.
- Anticipating the pass: One of the most critical roles of a center back is to anticipate the opponent’s passes. They read the game and anticipate where the ball might be played next, then position themselves accordingly. This allows them to cut off passing lanes, intercept the ball, and prevent the opposition from creating scoring opportunities.
- Anticipating the opponent’s movement: Center backs need to anticipate the opponent’s movement to stay ahead of them. They analyze the way their opponents move and use their knowledge of the game to predict their next move. This allows them to get into the right position to make a tackle or block a shot.
Here are some defenders who are famous for showing great anticipation:
- Virgil van Dijk – The Dutch center back has become widely regarded as one of the world’s best defenders, with his anticipation being a key part of his game.
- Sergio Ramos – The Spanish defender has long been considered one of the best center backs in the world, with his anticipation skills helping him to read the game and make crucial interventions.
- Kalidou Koulibaly – The Senegalese center back has been impressive in the Italian Serie A and is known for his excellent anticipation and ability to read the game.
- Giorgio Chiellini – The Italian veteran has been one of the most consistent defenders in world football, with his anticipation skills and reading of the game making him a formidable opponent.
- Aymeric Laporte – The Frenchman has quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s top defenders, with his anticipation and ability to read the game a key part of his success.
Athlete Focus Video Analysis
In order to help young athletes achieve their development goals, Athlete Focus offers in-depth video analysis, leveraged by a great software and top level coaches who will help you learn from every moment.
Make your first order today and get a free video!
