What is a low block in football? How it works, which teams use it

A low block is a defensive strategy frequently implemented across all levels of the football pyramid.

In this feature, we explain what a low block is, how it is implemented and which managers use it.

What is a low block?

A low block is a tactic which concentrates on protecting the defensive third of the pitch.

Teams will defend deep in their own half whilst preserving a compact shape with the aim of nullifying the opposition.

Defenders will hold a deep defensive line, reducing the amount of space in behind from which the opposition can exploit. The midfield and attack of the defensive team will be stationed just ahead, aiming to keep the distances between each unit minimal.

Teams in a low block will happily relinquish possession in order to prioritise their compact shape. It will encourage the opposition to probe but with the space in the final third congested, it makes it increasingly difficult for the opposition to create chances from which they can score.

Players must remain extremely disciplined in a low block and must avoid being lulled out of position. For defenders, operating in a low block is the ultimate test of their durability as they are under the microscope for prolonged periods and forced to make countless clearances, interceptions and tackles.

What are the benefits of playing a low block?

A superbly executed low block can be extremely effective in neutralising the attacking threat of an opponent and minimise the number of gilt-edged chances they're able to create.

A low block diminishes the risk of the opposition breaching the defensive line in behind due to the minimal space between the defenders and their goal, while the congested central areas can make it difficult for opponents to play through the middle and into positions where they're more likely to score.

While it is perceived as a negative tactic, the low block is often utilised to help a team protect their lead in a match or if the team is facing superior opposition.

What are the disadvantages of playing a low block?

If you're planning to dominate proceedings and beat opponents by a comfortable scoreline, a low block is not the tactic for you.

A team prioritising defensive shape in their own will have a diminishing effect on their attacking threat. Creative attacking players tend to be inhibited, while counter-attacks and set-pieces are the primary attacking methods for teams deploying a low block.

For other defensive strategies such as high press and mid-block, the distance to the opposition goal when retrieving possession is considerably shorter than for a team that were operating in a low block.

Furthermore, as defenders in a low block are under duress for prolonged spells, their concentration levels are tested for much longer periods and this increases the likelihood of an error which could lead to a goal.

It also requires buy-in from all 10 outfield players; a low block can ill-afford to carry passengers otherwise it will be exploited.

Which teams and managers use a low block?

The defensive organisation and resilience of teams Jose Mourinho managed is well-documented and the Portuguese tactician consistently implemented a low block during his tenure's with Inter, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Arguably his most famed usage of a low block came in the 2009/10 UEFA Champions League semi-finals when his Inter side stifled Pep Guardiola's all-conquering Barcelona at the Nou Camp, securing their passage to Madrid in sensational fashion.

Diego Simeone has enjoyed great success during his Atletico Madrid tenure with the execution of a low block, with the Argentine utilising combative, defensive midfielders in the pivot to protect his backline. Lining up in a 4-4-2 on paper, Atleti have often reverted to a 5-3-2 or even a 5-5-0 when out of possession, enhancing their solidity and making them increasingly difficult to beat.

Other managers with a preference for the low block tactic include Sean Dyche, Antonio Conte and Nuno Espirito Santo, with the latter currently bucking the modern tactical trends in the Premier League by defying the odds with Nottingham Forest.