The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast Premier League trends: How to break down low blocks
9 snips
Feb 12, 2026 
Liam Tharme, a tactics and analytics journalist; Mark Carey, a data-focused writer on set pieces and defensive trends; Michael Cox, a strategy and history analyst. They dissect low blocks, how teams stay compact and methods to break them like overloads and tempo. They also discuss rising headed clearances, long-range goals and whether the new ball is changing shot and cross outcomes.
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Low Blocks Are More Compact, Not More Common
- League-wide time in low blocks hasn't meaningfully risen over recent seasons according to SkillCorner data. Teams are facing deeper, more compact low blocks rather than more frequent ones.
Brighton Excel At Final-Third Pressing
- Brighton rank highly in high-block metrics and win the ball in the final third frequently despite less territorial dominance. Their energetic front line and defensive structure create many final-third recoveries.
Use Backwards Passing To Create Space
- Use backwards passing and patient circulation to bait a low block forward and open space behind it. Play quick, high-tempo side-to-side passes to tire defenders and exploit the moment they drop their guard.