Pressing is a collective action
A press puts the opponent under pressure while teammates restrict the next options. FIFA's compact-block practice stresses shared triggers, closed central passing lanes and support behind the first presser. Watch the second defender: their movement often tells you whether the first runner has useful cover.
Counterpressing follows a loss
Counterpressing is the immediate response to losing possession. The nearest player pressures the ball while others limit escape routes. FIFA's session connects that reaction with the team's positioning before the turnover. Attacking support therefore also matters to the next defensive action; the ball is not the only thing to follow.
Our reading of the risk
Try asking two questions: who can challenge now, and who protects the space if that challenge fails? Several players running forward may look aggressive without controlling the next pass. Treat a quick recovery as one outcome, then examine whether the same arrangement could survive a clean escape. That is a more useful observation than counting runners alone.
Sources & further reading
- FIFA Training Centre — Initiating the press from a compact block ↗
- FIFA Training Centre — Preparing and executing counter-pressing ↗
