Strikers in soccer have the main responsibility to score goals for the team. However, modern soccer is more tactical, and therefore the role of strikers has expanded,
So the question stands, What do strikers do in soccer? In this article, we are delving into all the roles of the strikes, looking at some of the best strikers in the game and which roles they excel in to make them the best.
Role of Strikers
The role of strikers in soccer is multifaceted and pivotal to a team’s success. These players are often the difference-makers on the field, possessing a unique blend of skill, instinct, and athleticism.
Scoring Goals
At its core, a striker’s primary duty is to score goals. They are the sharpshooters, the finishers, and the players who find themselves in the right place at the right time to put the ball in the back of the net.
For example, Erling Haaland’s main responsibility in Manchester City is to score goals
Whether it’s a clinical finish with their feet or a powerful header, strikers are expected to convert goal-scoring opportunities into tangible results for their team.
Movement and Positioning to create space
One of the distinguishing features of a top-notch striker is their ability to read the game and position themselves strategically. They understand when to stay on the shoulder of the last defender, make diagonal runs, or drop deep to receive the ball.
For example, in the above video, Darwin Núñez movement helped him get space in the penalty box and score the winner for Liverpool.
Effective positioning allows them to exploit defensive vulnerabilities. Elite movement and positioning help in creating space for themselves as well as other players in the game.
Movement in the attacking transition by strikers attracts opposition defenders towards them and creates space for other players even if they cannot get space themselves.
Link-Up Play
Strikers often serve as a crucial link between the midfield and the attack. They are not just goal-scorers but also playmakers, capable of providing key passes and assists. Harry Kane has one of the best link-up plays among the modern strikers of the game.
Effective link-up play involves combining with midfielders and wingers to create goal-scoring chances for themselves and their teammates.
Attack in Set Pieces
Physical strikers like Erling Haaland excel in set-piece situations, particularly free kicks and corner kicks. One of the roles of strikers is to attack these free kicks and corners to score goals or create space for others.
Pressuring the Opponent
Strikers are not passive figures waiting for chances to come to them; they actively pressure the opposing defenders and the goalkeeper.
One of the roles of Roberto Firmino in Liverpool is to pressure the defensive line of the opposition during their transition to gain back the ball in the final third of the soccer field.
By closing down passing lanes and forcing mistakes, they contribute to their team’s defensive efforts and can regain possession high up the pitch.
Defensive Contributions
While strikers are primarily known for their offensive prowess, modern soccer demands a more holistic approach. Many strikers are actively involved in pressing the opposition high up the pitch.
By applying pressure on defenders and midfielders, they disrupt the opponent’s build-up play and force turnovers, which can quickly lead to goal-scoring opportunities.
Best strikers in the world
Soccer has undergone significant evolution over time, and with it, the role of strikers in this sport has transformed as well.
Let’s identify the top strikers who are currently dominating the game, along with the specific roles in which they excel.
Harry Kane
With an impressive tally of 280 goals, Harry Kane stands as the all-time leading goalscorer for Tottenham Hotspur.
Kane’s exceptional talents shine brightly in three key areas: scoring goals, linkup play, and his adeptness in movement on the field.
Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema, formerly a standout striker in European soccer, has recently made headlines with his move to Saudi Arabia. Before this change, he enjoyed a stellar career, notably at Real Madrid, where he left an indelible mark with 354 goals in 648 games.
Benzema’s scoring record at Real Madrid is nothing short of impressive. As the chief goal-scorer for the club, he consistently found the back of the net, earning himself a place among the elite strikers in the sport.
Beyond his goal-scoring exploits, Benzema played a crucial role in the final third of the pitch. He was instrumental in linking up with the wingers, fostering a dynamic attacking partnership. This partnership caused considerable problems for opposing defenses, as it disrupted their structured defensive setups.
Erling Haaland
Arguably the sport’s finest striker at present, Erling Haaland achieved the pinnacle of success with Manchester City last season, securing a remarkable treble. His extraordinary feat included netting an astounding 52 goals in just 53 games during the campaign.
Haaland embodies the classic qualities of a traditional number 9. His prowess lies not only in his goal-scoring ability but also in his exceptional movement and positioning on the field. These traits enable him to find the right spots to make an impact in the game.
Adding to his repertoire, Haaland is a dominant presence in set-piece situations. His physicality makes him a formidable threat during corners and free kicks, allowing his team to capitalize on these opportunities and put pressure on the opposition’s defense.
FAQs
As a striker in soccer, your primary role is to score goals for your team. However, your responsibilities go beyond just scoring. You are at the forefront of the team’s attack, constantly seeking opportunities to create and convert goal-scoring chances. This involves intelligent movement, positioning, and the ability to link up with teammates. Additionally, you may contribute defensively by pressuring the opposing team and disrupting their play.
A striker’s role in soccer is multifaceted. Their primary objective is to score goals, but they are also instrumental in the team’s attacking play. Strikers use their movement, positioning, and creativity to create goal-scoring opportunities, not only for themselves but also for their teammates. They may also participate in defensive efforts by pressuring opponents and winning back possession. Strikers are often key players in set-piece situations and contribute to the overall success of the team’s offense.
To be a successful striker in soccer, you must possess a combination of goal-scoring ability, intelligent positioning, teamwork, and defensive contribution. These skills are essential for making a significant impact on the game and helping your team achieve success.
