Defensive Shape — Compact Mid-Block 11v9

Back four plus CDM plus four midfielders form the defensive block against 9 attacking players. Block must sit between the 18-yard box and halfway line, deny penetration, and trigger the press on cue. Attacking team is encouraged to overload wide to stress the shape.

• Defensive line moves as one — if the CB steps, the whole line steps; no individuals
• Hartley: position yourself to see the ball and the striker simultaneously; you're the lock on the door
• Forsyth and Silva: when the block is set you stay in position, overlap urges are for the other end of the pitch

• Add a condition: defending team must win possession and play to a target on halfway within 6 seconds
• Attacking team gets bonus points for playing through the block rather than around it — forces the defenders to solve the harder problem