While position six may not get the same level of attention from fans as the goalie or a point-scoring striker, the defensive midfielder is a crucial part of any club that hopes to challenge for their league championship. 

The most forward defenders on the team, they work to intercept the ball before it gets deeper into the defense, help coordinate movement between defenders and midfielders, and otherwise disrupt attacks. 

Playing this position requires a strong knowledge of soccer’s fundamentals, good instincts for the flow of the game, and plenty of athleticism. Lace up your soccer shoes and let’s get to know a little more about this unsung hero of the pitch.

A Player on an Island

In a traditional soccer formation, strikers and wingers play forward supported by the center midfielders. Meanwhile, the goalie, defensive backs, and defensive wingers hang back to ensure the goal is protected and reduce the risk of attackers overrunning their position. 

Between these two groups is a gap patrolled by a single player, the defensive midfielder, often denoted by jerseys blazoned with the number six, who has several responsibilities:

  • Control the Flow of the Game – An excellent passer and aggressive defender, position six works to slow the ball anytime it’s headed toward their goal and keep it moving quickly when it’s headed to their own offensive unit. This gives their own defenders more time to get in position and respond to attacks while limiting their opponents’ opportunities.
  • Protect the Defenders – Angles are important when protecting your goal, and the further out an attack is intercepted, disrupted, or held, the easier it is for defenders to cut off scoring opportunities before they can happen.
  • Disrupt Attacks – The defensive midfielder needs to have excellent timing for successful tackles without fouling the opponent while also being quick and agile enough to intercept the football in the air or on the ground. They should be ready to do everything within the rules to slow the attack or regain possession for their team.
  • Funnel the Ball from the Defenders to the Midfielders – A good defensive midfielder doesn’t just send the ball forward, they see the developing plays on the pitch and use expert passes to create movement that positions their forward players for better attack opportunities.

The play of position six can mean the difference between well-coordinated team play that wins the day or confusion that leads to defeat.

Not Always #6

While traditionally the defensive midfielder jersey would feature the number six, in today’s more fluid soccer structure, it’s not uncommon, especially at elite levels, for different players to take responsibility for position six as personnel are moved around for more favorable skills match-ups with the other team. In order to be successful, defensive midfielders need the same high-quality soccer equipment as the rest of the team. With the right football apparel, athletic ability, and soccer IQ, any player can be ready to help their team out from this essential position.

Get the officially licensed soccer gear and apparel from SoccerPro today.