Session 1.Set-Pieces- Basics - 2026 Content
This presentation from Beltagy Football Analysis Services introduces set‑piece analysis as a largely untapped competitive advantage in modern football. It begins with a disclaimer that academic research and coaching focus on set‑pieces are minimal, positioning analysts as the key innovators. The core of the material defines the seven set‑piece types (corners, direct/indirect free‑kicks, penalties, throw‑ins, kick‑offs, goal‑kicks) and outlines basic analytical pillars: tracking player routes, assigning roles, distinguishing outswing vs. inswing deliveries, targeting zones, and timing cues. Detailed defensive role categories are presented—zonal markers, man markers, short‑option defenders, edge‑of‑the‑box/second‑ball players, counters, and post players—accompanied by formation templates (e.g., 3‑5‑1‑1 outswing) and a legend of visual icons. Parallel attacking role groups are described—runners, screens/picks, short‑option attackers, second‑ball/edge‑of‑the‑box participants, stay‑at‑the‑back players, and standing defenders (on the goalkeeper or zonal marker)—with alternative formation examples (e.g., 6‑2‑1‑1). The deck intersperses numerous real‑match screenshots and tactical diagrams from Premier League and UEFA fixtures (Newcastle vs Aston Villa, Arsenal vs West Ham, Inter vs Arsenal, etc.) to illustrate each role in context. The session concludes with a homework assignment: analyse a Manchester City vs Brighton set‑piece, identify defensive and attacking roles, track role changes, and produce three tactical boards per idea using Tacticalista. Overall, the material serves as a practical, instructional guide for analysts to systematically dissect and improve set‑piece strategies.
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Set-Pieces: Untapped Competitive Edge
A disclaimer‑driven argument that set‑piece tactics are under‑researched and under‑coached, presenting analysts with a strategic advantage.