Soccer, known as “football” in most parts of the world, is a fun and exciting sport that millions of kids play and watch. One of the key elements of soccer is understanding the different positions on the field. Each position has a unique role that helps the team work together to score goals and defend against the opposing team. If you’re just starting out in soccer or want to understand the game better, this guide will help you learn about the main soccer positions and what each player is expected to do.

4 Simple Soccer Positions For Kids

The Soccer Field Layout

Before diving into the specific positions, it’s helpful to understand the basic layout of a soccer field. A soccer field is usually divided into two halves, with each team defending one half and attacking the other. The field is further divided into three main sections:

1. Defense – This is the area closest to your team’s goal, where defenders and the goalkeeper work to prevent the other team from scoring.
2. Midfield – This is the central part of the field, where midfielders play. They are responsible for linking the defense and attack, helping in both defense and offense.
3. Attack – This is the area closest to the opponent’s goal, where forwards or strikers play. Their main job is to score goals.

Now, let’s explore the different positions in soccer.

1. Goalkeeper (GK)

The goalkeeper, often referred to as the “keeper” or “goalie,” is the last line of defense. The goalkeeper’s primary role is to stop the ball from going into the net, using any part of their body, including their hands. This is the only player on the field allowed to use their hands, but only within the penalty area. Goalkeepers need to have quick reflexes, good hand-eye coordination, and excellent decision-making skills.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Stop shots from entering the goal.
  • Organize the defense, especially during set pieces like corners or free kicks.
  • Distribute the ball to teammates to start an attack, either by throwing or kicking it.

2. Defenders

Defenders play in front of the goalkeeper and are responsible for stopping the opposing team’s forwards from getting close to the goal. There are usually four defenders on a team, although this can vary depending on the formation. Defenders are typically divided into center-backs and full-backs.

a. Center-Backs (CB)

Center-backs play in the middle of the defense and are usually the strongest and tallest players on the team. They are responsible for marking the opponent’s strikers and clearing the ball from the penalty area.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Win aerial duels and clear the ball from dangerous areas.
  • Mark opposing strikers and prevent them from shooting.
  • Work closely with the goalkeeper and other defenders to maintain a strong defensive line.

b. Full-Backs (Left-Back – LB and Right-Back – RB)

Full-backs play on the left and right sides of the defense. They are responsible for defending against the opposing team’s wingers and providing support in the attack by moving up the field.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Defend against wingers and prevent crosses into the box.
  • Support the attack by overlapping with midfielders and delivering crosses.
  • Track back quickly to prevent counter-attacks.

3. Midfielders

Midfielders are the engine of the team, playing in the middle of the field and linking the defense and attack. They have a variety of responsibilities, from defending to attacking. There are usually three or four midfielders, depending on the formation, and they can be divided into central midfielders, defensive midfielders, and attacking midfielders.

a. Central Midfielders (CM)

Central midfielders play in the middle of the field and are often the most versatile players on the team. They need to be good at both defending and attacking, as they are involved in almost every aspect of the game.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Distribute the ball to teammates and control the tempo of the game.
  • Support the defense by tracking back and making tackles.
  • Join the attack by making runs into the opponent’s half and taking shots.

b. Defensive Midfielders (DM)

Defensive midfielders play just in front of the defense and focus on breaking up the opponent’s attacks. They are often strong tacklers and need to have a good sense of positioning.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Protect the defense by intercepting passes and making tackles.
  • Distribute the ball to more attack-minded players.
  • Maintain the team’s shape and prevent counter-attacks.

c. Attacking Midfielders (AM)

Attacking midfielders play closer to the opponent’s goal and are responsible for creating scoring opportunities. They need to be creative, have good dribbling skills, and be able to deliver accurate passes.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Create goal-scoring opportunities by delivering key passes.
  • Support the forwards by making runs into the penalty area.
  • Take shots from outside the box and score goals.

4. Forwards

Forwards are the main goal-scorers on the team. They play closest to the opponent’s goal and are responsible for finishing the team’s attacks. Forwards are typically divided into strikers and wingers.

a. Strikers (ST)

Strikers are the players who play in the central attacking position. Their primary job is to score goals. Strikers need to have good finishing skills, quick reflexes, and the ability to outsmart defenders.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Score goals by taking shots on target.
  • Hold up the ball to bring other players into the attack.
  • Make runs behind the defense to create goal-scoring opportunities.

b. Wingers (Left Wing – LW and Right Wing – RW)

Wingers play on the left and right flanks of the attack. They are usually fast and skillful players who can beat defenders and deliver crosses into the box.

• Key Responsibilities:
  • Dribble past defenders and deliver crosses to the striker.
  • Cut inside and take shots on goal.
  • Track back to help the full-backs defend against the opponent’s wingers.

Understanding Formations

In soccer, teams line up in different formations depending on their strategy. The formation refers to how the players are arranged on the field. Some common formations include:

• 4-4-2: Four defenders, four midfielders, and two forwards. This is a balanced formation that offers both defensive stability and attacking options.
• 4-3-3: Four defenders, three midfielders, and three forwards. This formation is often used by teams that want to attack more aggressively.
• 3-5-2: Three defenders, five midfielders, and two forwards. This formation allows for a strong midfield presence but requires the defenders to be very organized.

Each formation has its strengths and weaknesses, and coaches choose a formation based on the strengths of their players and the tactics they want to use in the game.

Understanding soccer positions is the first step in becoming a better player and a smarter fan of the game. Whether you’re playing as a goalkeeper, a defender, a midfielder, or a forward, knowing your role and how it fits into the team’s overall strategy is crucial.

As you continue to play and watch soccer, you’ll start to notice how different players use their positions to influence the game. So, grab a ball, pick a position, and get out there to enjoy the beautiful game!