- Closing the ball/player/space is where you reduce the time and space for the player without actively trying to win the ball (i.e. with a tackle or intercept)
- If you see your nearest opponent is about to receive the ball but you cannot win or affect the ball, close the ball/player/space
- Try to get close where you can reduce their time and space but not where you can be beaten easily by their first or second touch
Why this is important
- Closing the space allows you to be in a position to potentially try to win the ball
- It also allows your teammates time to move into a position as second and third defenders where they can cover & balance