What Does “Squeeze In” Mean in Soccer?

Have you ever heard a coach yell, “squeeze in!”? If you’ve been playing soccer long enough, I’m sure you have!

No, it doesn’t mean to squeeze or hug a player. No, no, no.

What does it mean? Squeezing is a defensive tactic to move closer together. You are removing passing options for the offensive team.

This strategy is used in various areas of the field, such as in the midfield or the penalty area.

You want to make it harder for the offensive team to find gaps and create scoring opportunities.

Let’s dive into it more.

How to Squeeze In On Defense

To execute the squeeze effectively, defenders must communicate and coordinate their movements.

They need to move as a unit (this is important), shifting left, right, high, and/or low to ensure that they are covering specific areas of the field.

Teams can cut off the angles of attack and force the opposition to play the ball backward or sideways.

The squeeze isn’t a one-and-done thing. Every player must move and adjust.

Defenders need to find their positioning based on the movements of the attacking team.

For example, if the offensive team is trying to play it through the middle, defenders may need to squeeze into the middle and force them outside.

What Are the Risks When Teams Squeeze In?

Risks for Defenders

If defenders do not squeeze as a unit, they risk leaving gaps in their defensive line that attackers can exploit.

This can lead to conceding goals and losing the games.

When defenders do not communicate and squeeze across as a unit, attackers can easily find space between them and create scoring opportunities.

Defenders need to work on their movement and communication skills to ensure they are squeezing correctly. This prevents attackers from exploiting gaps in their defensive line.

Opportunities for Attackers

When defenders are not compact and squeeze across as one, attackers can find more space to run into and create chances to score.

This can cause frustration for defenders and lead to them making mistakes and letting goals happen.

Attackers should look to take advantage of any gaps in the defensive line caused by incorrect squeezing and should focus on creating scoring opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Depending on the situation, you might hear your coach yell to squeeze in. This could happen on a goal kick or an attack.

Whatever the case may be, just know that it means getting closer to your teammates. You’re trying to cut out options for the offense.

It works.

But, it requires your team to work together. If a few players don’t do it, the offensive team may find the gaps.

I leave you with this…

Always pay attention. If a coach yells to drop back or squeeze in, don’t hesitate. Just do it!