The False 9 is a classic goal-scoring tactic that has been around for literally 100 years—but what exactly is it? Here, we’ll take a deep dive into how a False 9 operates, which of your favorite women’s soccer players have perfected it, and how you can practice it!
What it is
To understand False 9, first, we have to outline some of the front-line jargon. First, we have the number 9 player, the striking center forward. And we also have the number 10 player, the playmaker who calls the shots and gets things going. The False 9 asks the number 9 player to play deeper in the midfield to take on some of the responsibilities of number 10. By bringing the number 9 player deeper into the midfield, where a 10 might normally be, it draws attention away from a dangerous player who is ready to switch into that striking 9 at the drop of a hat. Pulling a striker away from the top of the pitch allows for more aggressive plays and opportunities created. The False 9 also gives the number 10 freedom to move around in space and bring up more of those goal-scoring opportunities, which is how it differs from something like an attacking mid.
The buzz created by the False 9 can be a big problem for the opposing team’s defense, specifically their center-backs. They can either…
