Pressing
Organised attempts to win the ball by engaging opponents high or in key zones.
Definition
Pressing means closing space, forcing predictable passes, and trying to regain the ball. Teams often press on triggers such as a weak touch, back pass, or touchline trap. Intensity and height vary by plan and game state.
Public metrics such as PPDA approximate engagement rate in a defined zone. They do not fully capture triggers, cover shadows, rest-defence, or regain quality. Video still matters.
Caution
Aggressive pressing is not automatically better. Measure recoveries, shots prevented, shots created after regains, and structural risk. Intensity alone is not enough.