## TL;DR

Football (soccer) tactics define team shape, playing style, and strategic approach. Formations: 4-4-2 (balanced), 4-3-3 (attacking), 4-2-3-1 (modern standard), 3-5-2 (wing-backs). Key tactical concepts: pressing (high/medium/low block), possession vs direct play, gegenpressing (counter-press), Tiki-taka (short-pass domination).

## Core Explanation

Defensive organization: zonal marking (cover space), man-marking (track opponent), hybrid systems. Offensive phases: build-up (play out from back), progression (midfield transitions), creation (final third), finishing. Set pieces: corners, free kicks, penalties account for ~30% of goals in top leagues. Transitions: most goals scored within 10 seconds of possession change (counter-attacks).

## Further Reading

- [IFAB Laws of the Game](https://www.theifab.com/laws-of-the-game-documents/)
- [UEFA Technical Reports](https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/)