Fundamental Strategy

There are four basic aspects in the game of soccer. As a soccer coach, you need to develop four clear strategic objectives that your players can follow. The following system is the brainchild of ExpertFootball.com and its creators

	On ball	Off ball
Offense	-finishing	-finishing runs	finishing
	-possession	-support	buildup
	-pressure	-backup	regaining possession
Defense	-clearing	-marking	limiting the enemy

Trying to score vs possession (finishing)
Attempts on goal are the main reason why goals are scored; therefore, effective finishing decides the outcome of games. Without successful finishing, matches cannot be won. Develop a strategy of when to shoot and how many players to get involved in your attacks. Engaging too many players in the frontline may leave holes in your defense so balance is key.

Preserving possession (buildup)
If your opponent doesn't have the ball he can't score on you. Skillful teams use possession to control the outcome of games. It is essential that you explain to your players what to do with ball possession. How do you want them to buildup attacks? Should they try to preserve control or risk it and go forward. Your decision should be dictated by the overall speed/skill of your team as well as the current result of the match.

Regaining possession (pressure)
Regaining possession is important because it immediately stops the advancement of an enemy attack and provides the opportunity to counter. Let your players know when/where to pressure the enemy and how many players should get involved in the process. Would you like them to regain possession as soon as they can or only when in their own half? These are issues that need to addressed beforehand.

Delaying the opposition
Why expend energy and try to get possession of the ball if your team is winning with a comfortable margin? Defensively, it is not always suitable to confront the enemy and try to take the ball from him. In some cases, it may be smarter to simply delay his game or close his options (without necessarily trying to gain possession).