Exploring the Rise of Centre-Backs as Set-Piece Takers in the NWSL
Over recent seasons, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) has seen a notable shift in how teams approach set pieces, particularly involving centre-backs. Traditionally, centre-halves are seen as targets for crosses during free kicks and corners, leveraging their height and aerial abilities. However, in a compelling development, several NWSL teams now entrust their centre-backs with delivering set pieces—a move almost unseen in the men’s game. This analysis delves into the reasons behind this tactical trend and how it mirrors wider changes in player profiles and strategy within the women’s game.
The Conventional Role of Centre-Backs in Set-Piece Situations
In men’s football, centre-backs are rarely tasked with taking set pieces. Their strengths typically include physical dominance and heading ability, making them ideal targets rather than deliverers. While some centre-backs, such as David Luiz or occasionally Eric Dier, have been known for their shooting prowess on long-range free kicks, it is virtually unheard of for them to regularly deliver crosses from corners or wide free kicks. Usually, players with exceptional passing skills but less physical presence, such as midfield playmakers, assume this role.
Shifting Profiles: Centre-Backs in the Women’s Game
NWSL teams are increasingly fielding centre-back pairings who possess not only solid defensive skills but also standout passing abilities. This trend reflects the evolving demands of modern football, particularly the emphasis on building from the back and initiating attacks through defenders. In the women’s game, centre-backs are less defined by height and sheer physicality, and more by technical competence—especially in distribution.
Since these defenders are comfortable playing accurate long balls and are adept at reading both offensive and defensive play, they have become logical choices for set-piece responsibilities. Their capability to deliver precise passes mirrors the technical standards required for high-quality set-piece execution.
Key Examples: Centre-Backs Taking Set Pieces in the NWSL
A number of NWSL teams have illustrated this trend by assigning set-piece duties to their centre-backs. Notable examples include:
– Alex Loera (Kansas City Current)
– Sam Staab (Washington Spirit)
– Lauren Barnes (OL Reign)
– Carrie Lawrence and Toni Pressley (Orlando Pride)
Despite having attacking players known for their flair and creativity—such as Rose Lavelle, Jess Fishlock, Megan Rapinoe (Reign), Ashley Sanchez, Anna Heilferty (Spirit), Sydney Leroux, and Jordyn Listro (Orlando)—these teams often opt for their centre-backs to deliver corners and wide free kicks. This is not due to a lack of playmaking talent elsewhere, but rather an intentional choice to leverage their accuracy and vision from deeper positions.
Advantages and Tactical Trade-Offs
Relying on a centre-back to take set pieces comes with its own set of pros and cons:
Advantages:
– Utilizes defenders’ long-ball accuracy and composure under pressure.
– Creates unpredictability for opponents who expect midfielders or forwards to deliver.
– Frees up attacking players to exploit second balls or take up goal-scoring positions in the box.
Drawbacks:
– Removes a physically imposing player from aerial duels in the penalty area during attacking set pieces.
– Requires centre-backs to quickly return to defensive positions if the opposition breaks out on a counterattack, potentially exposing the team.
Teams sometimes compensate by positioning other players deeper to guard against quick counterattacks, though the unique abilities of dedicated defenders in these situations remain hard to replicate.
What’s Behind the Tactical Shift?
Several trends help explain this evolution:
– The Modern Ball-Playing Defender: As tactical approaches in the women’s game evolve, defenders often operate as playmakers, orchestrating buildup play and distributing with precision.
– Emphasis on Technique Over Physicality: The NWSL has embraced technical development, favoring centre-backs who can control and distribute the ball over those who provide just aerial presence.
– Team Dynamics and Specialist Roles: With more attackers thriving closer to goal, entrusting set-piece delivery to defenders makes use of available technical skills across the squad.
Future Implications for Set-Piece Strategies
This tactical innovation may influence not only the NWSL but also broader footballing cultures. As more teams seek versatile and technically skilled centre-backs, we could see even more experimentation with defensive players in attacking routines, both in women’s leagues and potentially, in the men’s game as roles and responsibilities continue to evolve.
Conclusion
The unusual prevalence of centre-backs as set-piece takers in the NWSL is a reflection of evolving tactics and player skillsets within the women’s game. These defenders have emerged as valuable creators in dead-ball situations, distinguishing the league’s approach from traditional norms. As the game continues to prioritize technical ability and tactical flexibility, expect to see further growth and innovation in how set pieces are executed by all outfield positions.
