What a counter-attack is and how to play it
The counter-attack (or playing on the break) is a plan in which the team defends close to its own goal and, when it wins the ball, attacks very fast into the space the opponent left behind.
The counter-attack is one of the oldest weapons in football. Instead of keeping the ball, the team sits in, lets the opponent come on and, when it wins possession, goes for the far goal in a few touches while the opposition is still out of shape. Playing on the break needs pace up front, midfielders who pass well at speed and a solid defence. It is ideal against superior sides, which tend to push up and leave space in behind.
In ELDT counter-attack is one of the tactical styles you choose in the line-up, alongside normal, high press, down the wings, through the middle and long ball. Combined with a defensive mentality, it is the typical plan against a stronger opponent.
Players with the Quick speciality are made for it. And in the cup, where a draw takes you straight to penalties, holding on and breaking can be a sound strategy against a club from a higher division.
See it in the game: the manager's guide.
Related terms
More on Tactics
See also: online football manager · guides on the blog