Center-Back (CB)

Position Overview

• Position: Positioned centrally in the defensive line, typically as one of two central defenders in a back four or as part of a back three.
• Role: Acts as the defensive anchor, responsible for preventing opposition attacks, maintaining the defensive structure, and contributing to offensive plays during set-pieces.

Key Attributes and Skills

1. Tackling and Interceptions:
   • Strong tackling ability to dispossess opponents.
   • Quick reactions to anticipate and intercept opposition passes.
2. Aerial Prowess:
   • Dominance in aerial duels to clear crosses and defend set-pieces.
   • Contributes to offensive headers during attacking set-pieces.
3. Positional Awareness:
   • Tactical intelligence to maintain defensive lines and cover gaps.
   • Ability to read the game and anticipate opponent movements.
4. Distribution:
   • Accurate passing to initiate build-up play from the defensive third.
   • Comfortable playing short passes to midfielders or long balls to wingers or strikers.
5. Composure:
   • Ability to make calm and calculated decisions under pressure.

Responsibilities

1. Defensive Stability:
   • Mark opposition forwards to deny them space and opportunities.
   • Make timely tackles and clearances to neutralize threats.
2. Aerial Defense:
   • Clear aerial deliveries, such as crosses or corners, to protect the goal.
3. Ball Recovery:
   • Regain possession through tackles or interceptions and transition to attacking play.
4. Building Attacks:
   • Distribute the ball effectively to midfielders, full-backs, or wingers to start attacking moves.
5. Leadership and Communication:
   • Organize the defensive line and coordinate with teammates to maintain shape.
6. Versatility:
   • Adapt to various formations, such as a back four or back three, and handle different roles, like covering or sweeping.

Mental Attributes

• Concentration: Maintain focus throughout the match to avoid lapses in defense.
• Decision-Making: Make quick, precise decisions in high-pressure scenarios.
• Leadership: Command and organize the defensive unit.