The skills outlined here are especially important if you are playing in defense. However, other positions can benefit from them as well.

Containing an Opponent

When containing an opponent you need to lower the center of your gravity by first bending your knees and then lean forward.

You may also backpedal if your opponent starts to move sideways. Never run straight at your opponent as you will make it pretty easy for him to get around you. Instead, have patience and let him make the first move.

Block Tackle

This one is great for stealing the ball from your opponent while keeping your own balance. A block tackle is performed by first paling your non-kicking foot in a position that will make it possible to maintain good balance.

Then, just as your opponent touches the ball, you need to put your kicking foot quickly in the direction in which your opponent is moving.

If you perform this tackle with determination and full concentration your opponent will not have a chance against you.

Poke Tackle

By using this type of tackle you will simply stab the ball away from your opponent. However, you need to keep in mind to use the foot that is currently closer to the ball. You can’t either expect to always gain possession of the ball as this method is little risky.

Slide Tackle

This one is very effectively but can also be pretty dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. A slide tackle should be your last tackling option. For example, if you feel that you can’t reach the ball by using a poke or block tackle you may use a block tackle.

Although this tackle may seem to be pretty easy to perform you should not lose the respect for it. Remember, a block tackle should not be your first option when the opponent is approaching you.

Summary

In this article I have covered 4 different methods for defending that you can use while playing as defender. However, being a successful defender requires much more than that.

Some other things you need to master are ball handling, formations and advanced tactical measurements. But, these things will come naturally as long as you keep developing your soccer skills.