The Flat Goal Kick in Soccer

The "flat goal kick" in soccer refers to a rule change that significantly influences how the goalkeeper or another player performs a goal kick.

At higher levels of the game, the flat goal kick has become an indispensable element of play initiation.

Comprehensive Rule Change in 2019

Following the rule modification by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) in 2019, the framework for a goal kick is now defined as follows:

• Location of the Goal Kick
  The goal kick must be taken from within the goal area (six-yard box), and the ball is placed on the goal line or within the area.
• Ball in Play
  Previously, the ball had to leave the penalty area before it could be touched by another player. The rule change now states that the ball is in play as soon as it is kicked and clearly moves. This means teammates can receive the ball within the penalty area, speeding up the game and enabling greater tactical variety.
• Positioning of Opponents
  Opponents must remain outside the penalty area until the ball is in play. Once the ball is touched and in motion, they may enter the area.
• Tactical Implications
  This rule change allows for the goal kick to be executed as a short, flat pass within the penalty area, particularly benefiting teams that favor possession-based build-up play. It introduces more variability in play initiation, allowing goalkeepers and defenders to construct the game from the back instead of opting for a long kick upfield.

Flat Goal Kick – Creative and Flexible Build-Up Play

The flat goal kick contributes to fostering a more creative and flexible build-up phase and alters the dynamics of modern soccer, especially with regard to the pressing strategies of opposing teams.

Tactical Variations of the Flat Goal Kick

Professional, Offensive, and Defensive

The flat goal kick has expanded the tactical repertoire of soccer teams in both offensive and defensive contexts. Thanks to the rule change, teams can now play the ball out of their defensive third with more control and variation. Below are offensive and defensive tactical approaches to the flat goal kick:

Offensive Tactical Variations

Build-Up Play Through the Center Backs
One of the most common offensive strategies involves the goalkeeper playing a short pass to a center back. This approach can lure the opponent into an early pressing phase, thereby opening space in midfield or in attacking zones. Center backs can then continue play through the flanks or central areas with control.

Wide Positioning of Fullbacks
Fullbacks position themselves close to the sidelines, while center backs remain near the goalkeeper. This setup aims to stretch the field and force the opponent to spread out as well. The resulting gaps in the center can be exploited by a defensive midfielder (No. 6) or another central player to advance the attack.

Involving the Defensive Midfielder in the Center
The central defensive midfielder (No. 6) often drops deeper, positioning themselves between or just ahead of the center backs. This triangular structure creates numerical superiority, helping to bypass the opponent's pressing. The No. 6 directs the play and reacts quickly to open spaces.

Luring the Press for Vertical Breakthroughs
In this variation, the opposing team is drawn into pressing through short, secure passes near the penalty area. Once pressing is triggered, a quick vertical ball is played to an advancing midfielder or directly to a striker, catching the opposition off guard and rapidly gaining territory.

Defensive Tactical Variations

• Securing Possession to Relieve Pressure
  A defensive approach focuses on establishing possession in the team’s own half and neutralizing the opponent’s pressing. The ball is carefully circulated among center backs, the goalkeeper, and dropping midfielders to buy time and provoke the opponent into breaking their shape—particularly useful when protecting a lead.
• Switching Play and Delaying the Game
  The flat goal kick allows teams to bypass pressing through targeted switches of play. For example, the goalkeeper might initiate play on one side before executing a rapid switch via defenders to open space on the far side. This tactic helps defuse pressure and rebuild the attack.
• Shielding via Fullbacks Dropping Deep
  Fullbacks often drop back significantly to provide additional passing options and the ability to launch a long ball directly to an advancing striker or midfielder if pressure intensifies. This movement forces the opponent to adapt their formation, which in turn eases pressure on the defense.
• Slow Build-Up Through Staggered Positioning
  In a cautious approach, defenders remain staggered and the No. 6 serves as a secure passing option in front of the back line. The goal is to circulate the ball with control and minimal risk until an appropriate opening appears to move forward safely. This slow build-up minimizes turnovers in dangerous areas.

Summary

The introduction of the flat goal kick has given teams greater tactical flexibility. Offensively, it allows for controlled build-up play and the creation of space by luring the opponent. Defensively, it can be used to relieve pressure, buy time, and circulate the ball securely. In both cases, effective organization, spatial awareness, and coordinated movement are essential to maximize the advantages of the flat goal kick. The tactical choice of variation depends heavily on the game situation, opponent analysis, and desired tempo of play.