Breaking the Block: Playing Through Pressure

To develop the ability to play through a high press using support, scanning, and smart decisions. Players learn to transfer the ball from deep zones into advanced positions under pressure.

• Play with your head up – scan before receiving. • Timing of release – don’t force the ball under pressure, wait for movement and support. • Third-man runs – use bounce or support passes to break pressure. • Body shape – half-turn and angle to play forward quickly. • Breaking lines – look for split passes or diagonal switches to unbalance press. • Recovery shape – if ball is lost, get compact quickly to delay transition.