Opening Whistle
In soccer, attacking players tend to receive all the credit due to the goals they score and chances they create. Defenders on the other hand are often overlooked. Just like scoring goals, defending itself is an art which needs to be appreciated. The slide tackle is one of the most spectacular moves in a defender's arsenal. Timed correctly, a slide tackle can be just as important as a goal, shifting the momentum in a match. Join us on this journey into the underappreciated world of defending, as we look to shine some light on the art of the slide tackle.
Element 1: Timing
The first step to a successful slide tackle is timing the challenge to perfection. A slide tackle is a last resort move for a defender and must be used as such. As Paolo Maldini famously said “If I have to make a tackle, I have already made a mistake”. If you go to ground too early, an opponent can easily dribble past you. On the flip side, sliding in too late can result in a foul, and in some cases a booking. Keeping your eyes on the ball, and sliding in at just the right time makes the difference between a successful interception and a dangerous foul.
Element 2 : Intensity
With the timing on point, the next thing to keep in mind is the intensity of the challenge. When going into a tackle, it is important to go in 100%. Tackling halfheartedly will not only result in losing out in the challenge but can also lead to injury. Time your challenge well and make sure you go in without any fear. Tackle hard or don’t bother tackling at all.
Great video on learning the slide tackle - Video Credit : Spencer Moeller Youtube
Element 3: Making contact
The final element is making contact with the ball. When tackling it is important to use only one leg in order to avoid being penalized for a 2 footed challenge. Also make sure you make contact with your lace area or inside when sliding in. Using the studs is a dangerous move which can lead to a yellow or a red card even if you make contact with the ball.
Artists on Display
We talked about the technicalities of the slide tackle, now let’s look at 3 of the world’s best who have mastered this craft.
Paolo Maldini:
Arguably the greatest defender of all time, Maldini was one of the finest slide tacklers to grace the pitch. His timing was impeccable and his fearlessness in the challenge was unmatched. Playing both center-back and left back, Maldini won 26 trophies for AC Milan and represented his country 126 times.
Ashley Cole:
Another remarkable football player, Ashley Cole was one of the most feared left backs in the 2000’s. He was famous for his remarkable 1v1 defending and his ability to dispossess opposition wingers. Crisitano Ronaldo even admitted that Cole was one of the toughest defenders to play against.
Aaron Wan-Bisaka:
An excellent defender who has really managed to rejuvenate his Manchester United career in recent months. Wan-Bisaka, nicknamed the spider due to the technique he uses to lunge for the ball, is arguably the best current slide tackler in world football. His last ditch challenges are nothing short of remarkable, with most wingers struggling when playing against him.
Final Whistle
In the captivating world of soccer, the slide tackle is a key skill every defender needs to master. The margins of success are very thin and lie in how defenders time the challenge, the intensity they approach the tackle with and the contact they make with the ball. By delving into the intricacies of slide tackling, we gain a deeper appreciation for the skill required to perform a match winning tackle.
And just like that the final whistle is blown. We hope you liked today’s article and we want to thank you for sticking with us till the end. Subscribe to the blog down below for the latest stories and follow us on Instagram @Studsup99 for more content. If you want in person technical training, book your free player assessment today. Let’s get stuck in!
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