player positions![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Various tactical schemes are used in soccer; among the best known is the 4-4-2, a formation with four defenders, four midfielders and two forwards.
forward ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Offensive position usually placed behind the striker; this player uses speed to make crisp accurate passes.
right back ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Defensive position that covers the right side of the field; this player’s role is to impede an opponent’s progress toward the goal.
right midfielder ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Center position that plays on the right side of the field; this player uses playmaking skills to pass the ball to the forwards.
defensive midfielder ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Center position; this player tries to take the ball from the opponent before that player reaches the defenders and quickly mount a counterattack.
goalkeeper ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position whose role is to prevent the ball from entering the goal; this is the only player allowed to touch the ball with the hands.
striker ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Offensive position whose main role is to score goals; this player plays a forward position in the opposing team’s zone.
left midfielder ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Center position that plays on the left side of the field; this player uses playmaking skills to pass the ball to the forwards.
defensive midfielder ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Center position; this player tries to take the ball from the opponent before that player reaches the defenders and quickly mount a counterattack.
left back ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Defensive position that covers the left side of the field; this player’s main role is to slow or stop an opponent’s progress toward the goal.
stopper ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position that stays back, marks an opposing forward and prevents that player from being in a scoring position.
sweeper ![click to hear](/images/speaker.jpg)
Position that stays back, anticipates defensive mistakes by teammates and makes up for them; this player is not required to closely mark an opposing player.