In the preparedness of soccer coaches we have to put the emphasis on the knowledge that has to be acquired by them. This basic knowledge is essential to lead the team and achieve high level performance. In the explanation of soccer terminology one has been able to see many different chaotic interpretations until now. Today soccer terminology has been clarified both at theoretical and practical level. In this part we introduce the terminology that is used today.

Main phases of the soccer game

• Possession of the ball

The ball is possessed by the attacking team. Every mate has to be in position in order to develop the attack. So it requires that the offensive players have to move their defenders in order to be able to leave the defender any time and to gain possession of the ball.

• Possession of the ball by the opponent team

The ball is intercepted by the opposing team. The aim of the defending team is to regain possession of the ball. It can be achieved in different ways: by marking the opposing players, narrowing the field, or attacking the players with the ball.

• Exchange in possession of the ball

Exchange in possession of the ball is the moment when the offensive team loses the possession of the ball, and it is gained by the defending team. Normally the ball should be regained immediately. This is rather instable situation, and it can serve stabile basic point only after a few passes to initiate a counter-attack.

Playing area/ Playing field

The playing field is suited to the biological maturation of a selected age group by international practice.

• Age 6-7 years: 20*30 m
  
• Age 8-9 years: 20*40 m
  
• Age 10-11 years: 45*65m
  
• From age 12: the whole playing area can be used (international size: 68*105m)

The given game situations in allocated time intervals should be defined on the basis of the playing area or the number of players in the teams.

Formations

• Position of the players
  
• Players with respect to each other and in relation with the ball
  
• Coverage and usage of space
  
• Gain and possession of the ball
  
• Getting into position

Arrangement of players/ lining up

This term refers to the basic position of the players in the field, in which they start attacking individually or together, then, after losing possession of the ball they start defence together.

Tactics

This term refers to the application of the formation with respect to the individual and collective operations bearing in mind the rule of the game.

Training in real game situation

This term refers to training, which shows no difference in co-ordination, intensity and playing skills compared to real game situations.

Definition of Patterns

This term refers to the situation, which is characterized by continuous changes during the game. In this situation, -both the offensive and defensive players- have to progressively initiate and adapt according to the situation. The key to the successful solution of such situations can be interpreted as the consequence of a long learning process.

Skills

In given situations, skilled players are able to  perform their own tasks economically and successfully. A skilled team can be characterised by synchronized team work, and it has a specific style, system and individual features.

Playing talent

The players are able to choose right solutions related to the chain of playing patterns; they are able to execute them successfully on the basis of their
co-ordination and condition capabilities.