Introduction
In this article, we will the most important concepts on defending crosses, a crucial aspect when defending in a low block. We’ll use the English national team’s defensive tactics at Euro 2024 as our example. The ‘Three Lions’ have demonstrated significant proficiency in defending within a low block, forcing opponents to depend on crosses— a scenario where England’s defensive strength particularly shines.
Next, we will explore the key strategies behind their box defense.
Full-Back. Go Fast to Track the Winger
Firstly, it is crucial to emphasize the urgency with which full-backs must react to track the winger or any player receiving the ball on the flank. This intense pressure disrupts the player attempting to cross, taking away from them of space and time to play with advantage. Moreover, it is clear there is specific orders to guide the opponent into less advantageous positions, thereby increasing their discomfort. Once in such a position, full-backs use their body and arms to contest space and, if possible, recover the ball.
In this context, whether as wing-backs or full-backs, depending on the tactical setup, they play an essential role in defending crosses by either blocking the attempts to cross or forcing the opponents into unfavorable positions for crossing.
Trippier blocks the cross
In this action, we see Trippier (LB) moving fast towards the potential crosser, while the ball is rolling to ensure the distance is short when this player receives. This allows him to block the cross.
Marking Distribution
Marking distribution is another crucial element in defending against crosses, a tactic strongly emphasized by Gareth Southgate in his team’s strategy. The nearest central defender to the ball takes responsibility for the near post area, employing zonal marking to ensure coverage in case of a cross and to provide support if the opposing winger outmaneuvers the direct marker. Meanwhile, the rest of the defensive line engages in man-to-man marking, consistently maintaining a proper body orientation to ensure visibility of both the ball and the opposing player. They remain alert and responsive within the area, ready to adjust to any movements from their direct opponents. This is one of the key defensive team fundamental, that all teams need to include in their game model.
Stones and Rice defend zones
In this play, we can see England's marking distribution. Stones (CB) who is the closest CB to the ball, defends the near post. Rice (HM) helps defend the box by covering the penalty spot area. The rest of players take individual markings.
Holding Midfield Defending the Box
Another key factor is the role of the holding midfielder, usually Declan Rice, who helps protecting the box against potential crosses. He remains constantly vigilant to identify any opposing midfielders entering the penalty area, engaging in close man-marking. If there are no immediate threats in his zone, Rice positions himself at the penalty spot to protect this critical zone. Additionally, the English attacking midfielders station themselves at the edge of the area as the holding midfielder has abandoned his initial position, prepared to win any rebounds or avoid any second-chance opportunities.
Rice drops back
Rice (HM) follows his direct opponent and helps in protecting the box against a potential cross.
Midfielders’ Defending the Box
As Rice (HM) abandons his position, Maino (AM) and Foden (AM) also drop back to defend the zone near the box and be ready to mark individually or win a second-ball.
Conclusion
The performance of the English national team in this aspect of the game is remarkable. They have no problem defending in a low block when necessary, and in fact, they display great security thanks to their effective defense against crosses.
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