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Tactical

Set Piece Positioning

Optimise your positioning and organisation for corners, free kicks, and set pieces.

Set pieces require specific positioning, organisation, and decision-making. Whether defending corners, free kicks, or other dead-ball situations, your positioning must account for delivery zones, your defenders' abilities, and common attacking patterns. Proper preparation and clear communication dramatically reduce goals conceded from set pieces.

Key Points

  • 1Position yourself to cover the most likely goal-scoring zones
  • 2Organise defensive marking assignments clearly before delivery
  • 3Adjust your position based on delivery side and expected flight path
  • 4Decide whether to come for crosses or stay on your line
  • 5Maintain focus throughout the set piece routine and be ready for variations

Training Drills

  • ✓Corner kick scenarios from both sides with full defensive set-up
  • ✓Free kick positioning and wall organisation practice
  • ✓Decision-making: when to come for balls versus staying
  • ✓Dealing with short corners and quick variations
  • ✓Set piece game scenarios under match pressure

Learn From the Pros

Nick Pope's commanding presence on corners and set piecesEmiliano Martínez's organisation and authority in his areaThibaut Courtois's positioning for free kicksDavid de Gea's shot-stopping from set piece deliveries

Ask FootballGPT

“Where should I position myself for corners?”

“How do I organise my wall for free kicks?”

“Should I come for every cross from set pieces?”

“How do I deal with near-post corners?”

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should I position myself for defending corners?

Generally towards the back post side, as crosses to the far post are common and dangerous. Position yourself where you can cover the goal whilst being able to come for crosses in your optimal zone. Adjust based on delivery side and opposition tendencies you've scouted.

How do I organise an effective defensive wall?

Position your wall to cover the near post side, forcing the free kick taker to go over or around the wall. Use enough defenders to cover the angle without leaving gaps. Position yourself to cover the far side whilst seeing the ball. Get your wall set quickly and clearly.

Should I try to come for every cross from corners?

No. Come for crosses in your optimal zone where you can reach the ball cleanly. Trying to claim everything leads to mistakes and undermines your defence's trust. Know your strengths and play to them. A strong defence can deal with crosses you can't reach.

How do I defend against short corners or variations?

Stay alert and communicate constantly. Have a plan with your defenders for dealing with short corners. Don't commit to coming out too early. Many short corners aim to create confusion and isolate you. Maintain your position until you know where the ball is going.

Related Guides

📐Positioning and Angles📢Communication and Organising✋Handling and Catching

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set piece positioningcorner kick defendingfree kick positioninggoalkeeper organisationdefensive set piecescommanding the area

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Set Piece Positioning - Goalkeeper Guide | FootballGPT