Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Wayne Rooney are great examples of this. The elite center-forward can fulfill several of these roles. ‘Target men’ are usually tall, physical players who thrive on crosses into the box and duels with defenders. Others prefer to play on the shoulder of a defender, making runs in behind the defense at every opportunity. This allows them to hold up possession with a view to turning their defender or finding teammates. Some CFs like to receive the ball with their back to the goal. Certain body types, physical attributes, as well as playing styles suit different roles. The role of a CF has never been one-dimensional. The center forward is usually the main goal scorer in a team, particularly in a 4-4-2 set-up where they play behind a second striker or attacking midfielder. Soccer Position #9 – Striker (ST) or Center Forward Additionally, players can sometimes wear numbers that do not match their position, depending on personal preference or team traditions. While these position numbers are generally followed, some teams and leagues may have variations or different systems for assigning numbers to players. The number 9 jersey is usually worn by the center forward or striker, while the number 10 is typically worn by the attacking midfielder. Forwardsįorwards are the attacking players on the team, and their primary role is to score goals. They are responsible for controlling the flow of the game and distributing the ball to their teammates. Midfielders play both an offensive and defensive role. These players are responsible for defending their team’s goal and preventing the opposing team from getting close enough to score. This player’s primary role is to protect the goal and prevent the opposing team from scoring. The goalkeeper is almost always assigned the number 1 jersey. It’s the coordination of all the players that makes soccer so much fun to watch. Some players need to possess great one-on-one skills, some need elite stamina, and some need the ability to play with physicality. soccer positions by numbersĮach player on the field has an important job as it relates to the team’s overall success. They are often tasked with dribbling or passing the ball deep into their territory for a goal. These are mainly offensive players, positioned between the forwards and center midfielders. Positioned deep in the opponent’s territory, strikers pose the biggest threat to the opposing team’s keeper. They often dictate the speed and pace of the game and are responsible for controlling the offense at times. Positioned along the left and right touchlines of the field, wingers are responsible for creating scoring opportunities, pushing the ball up the field, and scoring themselves.Ĭentral midfielders are the link between defense and attack, with major responsibilities on both offense and defense. They are also solid passers, playing a significant role in advancing the ball into the defense’s territory. (CDM) This player’s main role is to slow down the opposition from attacking the middle of the field and gaining possession. They intercept passes, tackle attackers, block shots, and steal the ball in one-on-one situations. These are the central defenders, tasked with protecting the center of the field. They defend the opposing team’s wide wingers and are also involved in offense sometimes, joining the offensive attack depending on which side of the field their team is attacking. These players are known as the outside defenders.

They are responsible for preventing the other team from scoring goals and are the only players allowed to use their hands on the field.

The goalkeeper, also known as the “keeper”, is the last line of defense for their team. Let’s dive into the heart of soccer and explore the roles that make this sport a global phenomenon. Whether you’re a seasoned fan, a budding player, or a newcomer to the sport, this quick guide to soccer positions and their corresponding numbers will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the game. The traditional numbering system assigned to these positions provides a universal language for discussing strategy and tactics. Each player on the field plays a crucial role, and understanding these roles is key to appreciating the beautiful game. That’s why we have created this “ Soccer Positions Quick Guide” for you.įrom the goalkeeper, the last line of defense, to the striker, the primary goal scorer, every position has unique responsibilities and challenges. Soccer, the world’s most popular sport, is a game of strategy, skill, and teamwork.

Soccer players numbers by position