What is a mid-block?
A mid-block is an out-of-possession strategy focusing on protecting the middle third of the pitch. The priority is to remain compact enough to stop the opposition from playing through the team. The most attacking players do not engage the opposition too high up the pitch, and the defensive line does not drop too deep towards their own goal. Some space is left in behind the back line, in which the goalkeeper can sweep up.
Where does the term originate?
The term ‘mid-block’ refers to the defensive strategy that is in between the low block – which is close to goal – and the high block, with which teams push up and leave lots of space in behind. The mid-block is named after the area of the pitch it focuses on the most: the middle. The low, mid and high blocks are the three main defensive strategies during long periods out of possession. They come after a team has transitioned into defence.
When playing with a mid-block, what do the players do when out of possession?
Once a team has dropped back into a mid-block, the priority is compactness. Distances between players (laterally) and units (vertically) should be kept to a minimum to prevent the opposition from playing through the team.
Almost all mid-blocks are made up of three lines or units, with players recovering into their primary defensive positions. This may differ from their attacking role, such as a high full-back or wing-back recovering into the defensive line.
Once the block is set, players should demonstrate control and restraint to hold their positions. Individuals should not jump out to press too often, because that would leave gaps that opponents could exploit. Similarly, a solid defensive line should be held to maintain compactness, and players should not drop too deep. Doing so would create space in between the lines. Players should look to block off potential passing lines, delay the opposition’s forward progress and screen play from side to side.
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