A measure of how deep a defending team holds its defensive line — typically expressed as the average distance of the back line from their own goal during opposition possession.
Block height measures the average vertical position of a team's defensive line during opposition possession, expressed in metres from their own goal-line. A high block sits 50-60m up the pitch (forcing turnovers in the opposition half); a mid-block holds around 35-45m; a low block defends within 20-30m of its own goal.
Lower block heights compress the space behind the defence, making through-balls almost impossible — but cede the entire opposition half, inviting sustained pressure. Teams like Atlético Madrid under Simeone and Burnley under Dyche made the low block a structural identity. The trade-off: low blocks generate fewer xG of their own (long counter-attacks against tired pressing midfields), but concede less if discipline holds.
Low Block
A deep, compact defensive setup where a team defends close to their own goal, prioritising shape and compactness over winning possession high up the pitch.
High Defensive Line
A tactical setup where defenders position themselves well up the pitch, compressing space between the lines and using the offside trap.
High Press
A defensive tactic where a team aggressively pressures opponents high up the pitch, attempting to win the ball back in the opposition's half.
PPDA (Passes Per Defensive Action)
A measure of pressing intensity — how many opposition passes are allowed before a defensive action is made in the opponent's half.
Park the Bus
An ultra-defensive strategy where a team focuses almost entirely on preventing goals rather than attacking.
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