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Using the central player to find the free side under pressure

A viewing guide to the build-up ideas in FIFA Training Centre’s session with Gilberto Silva.

By ZTVmm Editorial · 26 September 2026 Community
Using the central player to find the free side under pressure

AI-generated editorial illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.

Sources checked 2026-09-26

The FIFA session explores using a local numerical advantage during build-up. One option is to connect through a central player and progress towards a free teammate on the far side.

ZTVmm exercise: look at the passer and far-side receiver before the central player gets the ball. Compare early supporting movement with movement that only begins after the pass arrives.

If the route is blocked, retaining possession may be a reasonable choice. Assess the information available at the time, not only the eventual outcome.

This is an original guide to observing the practice. A single sequence should not become a permanent judgement of a player’s ability.

Source: FIFA Training Centre ↗

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