Do You Know All The Soccer Field Positions?

Most Americans know the positions and basics of the game of baseball, but when it comes to soccer, there seems to be quite a bit of confusion. As professional soccer gains popularity in America, it is becoming increasingly valuable to understand the rules and soccer field positions in order to follow along. The classic formation on a soccer field is known as the "3-3-4" with three offensive players, three midfielders, and four defensive players making up the 10 outfield players, and a goalkeeper in the goal.

The offense is made up of three players: outside wings (left and right) and a striker. They are collectively known as forwards because of their position on the field in the front of their team, in scoring position. The striker is the main goal scorer, but the left and right wings are responsible for scoring goals as well. They are responsible for getting into scoring position so when they are fed the ball by their teammates that have a clear shot at the goal.

Midfielders are responsible for covering the center of the field, but they are expected to move forward if the offense needs help scoring or move back if the defense needs help keeping the opposing team players from scoring a goal. There are three midfielders in the classic formation: left and right midfielders and a center. The centerfielder is best at creating plays and has the best view of the field.

The defensive line starts with the fullbacks. They are located behind the midfielders and there are three of them as well: left, right, and center. Their role is to tackle the ball from the opposing team as to prevent goals from being scored. This position requires strength because you must do everything you can to keep a forward from the other team from shooting at the goal. The other positions have more flexibility to move around the field, but fullbacks must remain in their defense line.

The last two people between an opposing team and a goal are the sweeper and the goalkeeper. The sweeper is located behind the midfielders and guards the best scorer on the opposing team, often the attacking team's striker. The goalkeeper is positioned right in front of the goal and prevents shots from crossing the goal line.

This is the classic formation of soccer positions on the field. However, different variations can be used for strategic reasons during a match. For example, some teams use four midfielders instead of a sweeper in order to increase the number of players on the attack.