These are mainly offensive players, positioned between the forwards and center midfielders. Positioned deep in the opponent’s territory, strikers pose the biggest threat to the opposing team’s keeper. They often dictate the speed and pace of the game and are responsible for controlling the offense at times. Positioned along the left and right touchlines of the field, wingers are responsible for creating scoring opportunities, pushing the ball up the field, and scoring themselves.Ĭentral midfielders are the link between defense and attack, with major responsibilities on both offense and defense. They are also solid passers, playing a significant role in advancing the ball into the defense’s territory. (CDM) This player’s main role is to slow down the opposition from attacking the middle of the field and gaining possession. They intercept passes, tackle attackers, block shots, and steal the ball in one-on-one situations. These are the central defenders, tasked with protecting the center of the field. They defend the opposing team’s wide wingers and are also involved in offense sometimes, joining the offensive attack depending on which side of the field their team is attacking. These players are known as the outside defenders. They are responsible for preventing the other team from scoring goals and are the only players allowed to use their hands on the field. The goalkeeper, also known as the “keeper”, is the last line of defense for their team. Let’s dive into the heart of soccer and explore the roles that make this sport a global phenomenon. Whether you’re a seasoned fan, a budding player, or a newcomer to the sport, this quick guide to soccer positions and their corresponding numbers will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the game. The traditional numbering system assigned to these positions provides a universal language for discussing strategy and tactics. Each player on the field plays a crucial role, and understanding these roles is key to appreciating the beautiful game. That’s why we have created this “ Soccer Positions Quick Guide” for you.įrom the goalkeeper, the last line of defense, to the striker, the primary goal scorer, every position has unique responsibilities and challenges. 11 can also play on either wing and have to supply quality passes or shots in the attacking third.Soccer, the world’s most popular sport, is a game of strategy, skill, and teamwork. Top attacking midfielders in 2023: Alexia Putellas (Spain), Marta (Brazil), Jill Roord (Netherlands) No. 10 is usually known for their creative abilities in the advanced areas of the midfield, mostly as a passer, to generate assists to strikers and wingers. Top strikers in 2023: Sam Kerr (Australia), Ada Hegerberg (Norway), Alex Morgan (USA) No. 9, which is another hugely common one today. The player playing most advanced on the pitch in hunt for goals is a striker that is referred to as a No. Top box-to-box midfielders in 2023: Lina Magull (Germany), Lindsey Horan (USA), Grace Geyoro (France) No. They’re often called “box-to-box” midfielders because they’re adept at attacking and defending. 8 plays in center midfield and occupies areas a little more advanced than a No. Top left wingers in 2023: Lieke Martens (Netherlands), Guro Reiten (Norway), Lauren Hemp (England) No. 7 could play on either wing and help put in crosses into the box to feed strikers or score goals themselves. Top defensive midfielders in 2023: Keira Walsh (England), Lena Oberdorf (Germany), Lia Walti (Switzerland) No. Their job is to protect the backline, retain the ball and recycle possession if need be. 6 jersey refers to a defensive midfielder, also known as a holding midfielder. This one has evolved over time, but the No. Top center-backs in 2023: Wendie Renard (France), Irene Paredes (Spain), Millie Bright (England) No.

Both are still pretty common among players. The two center-backs playing directly in front of the goalie would typically wear Nos.

Top left backs in 2023: Fridolina Rolfo (Sweden), Selma Bacha (France), Katie McCabe (Ireland) Nos. You guessed it – they played as a defender on the left-hand flank. Top right backs in 2023: Lucy Bronze (England), Ellie Carpenter (Australia), Ona Batlle (Spain) No.

The number-position combination here isn’t as common anymore. 2 kit was usually worn by a right-back, who played as a defender on the right-hand side of the field. Moving right up to the positions in front of the goalkeeper, the No. What are the differences between women's and men's FIFA World Cups? No.

Us soccer position number system