How to Play Defense in Soccer

Defense in soccer is critical to minimizing the scoring options of the other team. Defensive plays are also typically easier to learn. An offensive player needs to learn specific strategies to score, while a defensive player must simply deflect the ball. Finesse helps, but it isn't critical on defense.

Instructions

1. Learn how to read the attack. A defensive player should watch his opponent to see if he moves quickly, or his movements seem thought-out, and if he tends to attack at the side or from the front. This information helps the defensive player know where to position himself.

2. Take a mobile stance in soccer defense. A defensive player should stand with his knees slightly bent, feet apart, with his weight bouncing between his feet so he's ready to move in any direction to defend the goal and deflect the soccer ball.

3. Channel the attack to dictate the direction an attacker moves. To do this, run at her to effectively herd her away from the goal.

4. Focus on field position. Soccer defense typically works the third of the field in front of the goalie and behind the half-court line. Once you are comfortable with your field position, you can develop better skills in that area.

5. Drill for both a central defender and a stopper. A central defender is one who works defense as needed. A stopper is a defender who can easily read the attacker, and is assigned to defend the most aggressive attacker on the other team.