Maintaining possession is always the best way to control the game and opponent; however, the reality is that the opponent will gain possession many times during a game. The terms ‘Counter-Pressing’ or ‘Anti-Pressing’ have become common in recent years; although the concept is not a new one, the terms seem to be popular at this time. In essence, the concept is very simple – ‘We have lost possession and we want to get it back as fast as possible!’
Certain teams have applied a 5 or 6-second rule whereby they attempt to regain possession within that time frame. It is important to understand that Counter-Pressing should not be applied in a chaotic / unstructured way with players randomly chasing opponents; players must understand their roles in various areas of the pitch in multiple situations.
Barcelona, during Guardiola’s tenure, became famous for their ability to quickly regain possession, especially in advanced areas of the pitch. Since joining Bayern Munich he has carried on that tradition of looking to regain possession immediately in certain areas of the pitch.
The following activity has been used by Guardiola to develop the ability to regain possession quickly. The activity not only develops the technical + tactical aspects of ‘Counter-Pressing’ but also, importantly, creates the habit for players to immediately take action on losing possession.
Activity #1:
Setup:
One team of 4 players positioned inside the grid, one team of 4 players positioned on the perimeter + 3 ‘Free’ players (2 on perimeter and 1 positioned inside the grids).
Instructions:
POSSESSION / COUNTER-PRESSING GAME:
The 4 central players (yellow) act as the defensive group; the 4 perimeter players (red) + the 3 FREE players act as the attacking team – this creates a 7v4 in favor of the team in possession.
The 7 attacking players must maintain possession – 10 passes = 1 goal.
The Defensive (4) players must attempt to win possession as well as deny penetrating passes to the central Free player and through their defensive lines.
COUNTER-PRESSING:
If the Defenders (Yellow) gain possession, the 4 perimeter players must immediately sprint into the grid to apply counter-pressing to regain possession.
Coaching Points:
- In Possession: Quick ball circulation + movement
- Transition to Defend: THINK counter-press immediately!
Activity #2:
Setup:
One team of 4 players positioned inside the grid, one team of 4 players positioned on the perimeter + 3 ‘Free’ players (2 on perimeter and 1 positioned inside the grids).
Instructions:
COUNTER-PRESSING:
In Diagram B, perimeter Player (A) has attempted to pass to Central player (1) – the pass has been intercepted. Immediately the 4 perimeter players must transition to defend by entering the grid – Counter-Pressing is applied to try to win back possession of the ball.
Target: win back possession before the opponent can make 3 successful passes / or in 5 seconds or less.
Target for opponent: Make 3 successful passes and then roles reverse.
Coaching Points:
- Transition to Defend: THINK counter-press immediately!
- Develop the habit of immediately seeking to regain possession – as quickly as possible
- Nearest player to the ball must apply pressure – all other support players must deny passing opportunities