Defending the cut-back ball together

To defend a cut-back ball from near the goal line, the goalkeeper and defenders need to coordinate their positioning. FIFA's 2023 U-20 World Cup study discusses this point.

When watching the game, observe whether everyone runs towards the ball, and who marks the late runner arriving into the middle of the area. Protecting the near post and blocking the passing lane to the centre are related but not the same responsibility.

When a goal is conceded, it is easy to blame only the last player to touch the ball. For a more complete analysis, you should also review the positioning and assignment of responsibilities before the ball was cut back.