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Soccer Tactics 101: Understanding Different Playing Styles in MLS

Soccer, or as it’s known to the rest of the world, football, isn’t just a game of kicking a ball into a net. It’s a chess match, where strategies and tactics play a pivotal role in deciding the outcome of a match.

In Major League Soccer (MLS), a melting pot of playing styles and tactics are used, and understanding these approaches can greatly enhance your appreciation of the game. So, let’s break down some of the prominent playing styles you’ll see in MLS, using language that’s easy for everyone to grasp.

The Possession Game

One of the most eye-catching styles in soccer is the possession-based game. Think of it as keeping the ball to yourself, not letting the other team have it. The thinking here is that if the other team don’t get hold of the ball, they can’t score.

Teams like LAFC and Atlanta United have shown a penchant for this style. It’s all about controlling the game through continuous passing and movement, pulling the other team around the pitch, then attacking their goal when an opportunity is created.

The key to a successful possession game lies in skilled midfielders. These players, often seen as the maestros or puppet masters of the team, have an exceptional ability to control the ball and make precise passes. They set the rhythm and pace of the game, often dictating how and when the team attacks.

Counter-Attacking Football

MLS Counter Attack Columbus Crew
From MLS

Counter-attacking is like the quick, sneaky punch in a boxing match. Teams that excel in this style, like the Columbus Crew, wait for their opponents to make a move, often drawing them forward, and then strike back rapidly. This tactic is especially effective against teams that love to keep possession and push high up the pitch.

It requires an extremely cohesive style of play, as all players must understand when to make the switch and do so quickly, catching the opposition off guard.

Players crucial to this style are fast forwards and wingers who can run at defenders and exploit the spaces left by the opposing team’s attacking play. The sudden switch from defense to offense can be thrilling to watch, as it often leads to fast-paced, end-to-end gameplay.

High-Pressure Tactics

High-pressure, or high-pressing, is a tactic where a team aggressively challenges the ball as soon as they lose possession. Think of it as not giving your opponent a moment’s peace. No time to think. Teams like the New York Red Bulls have utilized this strategy effectively in MLS.

This approach requires incredible fitness and coordination, as players need to swarm the opponent in numbers and cut off passing lanes. It also requires forward plays to close down the opposition and not just wait to be served.

When executed well, it forces the opponent into making mistakes, leading to turnovers in dangerous areas of the pitch, and less opposition activity in your own half.

Defensive Resilience

MLS Defensive tactics Seattle Sounders
From Seattle Sounders

On the other end of the spectrum, some teams focus on building a fortress-like defense. Teams employing this tactic, like the Seattle Sounders at times, focus on keeping a solid defensive line and limiting the space and opportunities for their opponents.

This playing style may not always be glamorous, but it’s effective. It relies heavily on disciplined defenders and a goalkeeper who can organize the backline and make crucial saves.

The aim is to frustrate the opponent and capitalize on the few chances created, often from set pieces or quick breaks. It tends to be used by smaller teams playing against more dominant teams.

The Wing Play

Wing play is about using the wide areas of the pitch. Teams like Toronto FC often utilize this tactic, where the emphasis is on speedy wingers or full-backs who provide width and deliver crosses into the box.

The effectiveness of wing play hinges on the ability of wide players to beat their markers and deliver quality balls into the penalty area. It’s a style that thrives on creating mismatches and taking advantage of aerial prowess.

Any team utilising this style of play will need fast, skilful wing backs or full backs, who can run up and down the pitch partnering with the winger, providing well timed overlaps.

Tiki-Taka and Its Influence

Originating from Spain, Tiki-Taka has found its way into MLS, most notably with teams coached by former Barcelona players or disciples of this philosophy. This style is an advanced form of possession play, characterized by short, quick passes and constant movement.

It’s a beautiful style to watch when performed correctly. It’s like a dance with the ball, where players move in a choreographed manner, creating patterns that bewilder opponents. The challenge, however, lies in its execution, requiring players with exceptional technical skills and understanding of space.

One touch football would be another way of thinking about this, as pace of play is important.

The Blend of Styles

What makes MLS unique is the blend of these styles. Due to the diverse backgrounds of players and coaches in the league, you’ll often see a mix of these tactics in a single game. This diversity is what makes MLS an exciting league, as teams are constantly adapting and evolving their approaches.

Understanding these tactics isn’t just about recognizing what’s happening on the pitch; it’s about appreciating the thought process behind every pass, tackle, and goal. Soccer is a thinking game as much as it is a physical one, and an understanding of these tactics can deepen your love and appreciation for the sport. Every team’s strategy is a carefully crafted plan, a combination of their players’ strengths, the coach’s philosophy, and the unique challenges presented by their opponents. It’s this strategic depth that adds layers of intrigue to every match.

Role of Coaches in Shaping Tactics

MLS Coach Tactics

The coach is the architect of a team’s playing style. In MLS, with its varied roster of coaches from different soccer cultures, the influence of the coach is particularly evident. They not only decide the tactics but also inspire their players to buy into their vision, which in itself might require some skilled man management from the coach.

From the sideline, they orchestrate the team’s movements, making real-time decisions based on the way events are unfolding, adapting to the opposition’s tactics and how they are impacting the plan. These in-play decisions can turn the tide of the game.

In modern soccer, and especially in a league as diverse as the MLS, flexibility is key. Teams often have to adapt their playing style based on their opponents, injuries, or even the weather conditions. This adaptability can be seen in how teams shift from one style to another, even within a single match. It’s a testament to the tactical acumen of the coach and their players, that they have the ability to execute different game plans.

The Role of Technology and Data

The use of technology and data analysis in soccer has grown exponentially. Teams in MLS now employ data analytics to understand their own playing style and scout their opponents.

They can see real time data that lays bare any gaps in their approach, as well as pinpoint areas of the field where they tend to lose the ball a lot, or explain why play gets bogged down in specific scenarios.

By analyzing patterns, teams can also anticipate and counter the strategies of their opponents, adding another layer to the tactical battle. For example, when facing a team who like to press, coaches can look for weaknesses to exploit, or look into what they have done in the past when an opposition team has used counter attacking football against them.

In this way, they can advise their players on what to look out for, and give some tips on how to handle their opponents’ attempts to thwart their plans.