Common mistakes in goalkeeper build-up play
In modern football, the build-up phase starting with the goalkeeper is a crucial part of controlling the game through possession. But it’s also one of the riskiest phases, where small mistakes can quickly lead to goal-scoring opportunities for the opponent.
Let’s break down the most frequent mistakes made during this phase — and how to correct them.
1. Poor decisions under pressure
🧩 Example: The goalkeeper passes to a marked defender or forces a dangerous ball through the center.
🔍 Cause: Failure to read the opponent’s pressing quickly.
✅ Solution: Train goalkeepers in small-sided pressure scenarios to improve time management and decision-making under stress.
2. Lack of synchronization with defenders
🧩 Example: The keeper plays a lateral pass while the defender moves back toward the goal.
🔍 Cause: Weak communication or missing automatisms.
✅ Solution: Use repetitive drills involving 3 or 4 players in build-up shape, assigning clear roles and responsibilities.
3. Incorrect goalkeeper positioning
🧩 Example: The keeper stays too deep, reducing passing angles and making it easy for opponents to press.
🔍 Cause: Poor footwork training and lack of positioning as a “third center-back.”
✅ Solution: Include positioning exercises with simulated pressure to build confidence stepping out beyond the box.
4. Lack of tactical integration for the goalkeeper
🧩 Example: The goalkeeper resorts to automatic long kicks, ignoring the team’s build-up plan.
🔍 Cause: The keeper isn’t included in tactical discussions.
✅ Solution: Hold video sessions and tactical meetings where the goalkeeper takes part in build-up analysis and planning.
5. Passing to marked players in dangerous areas
🧩 Example: A pass is played to a defensive midfielder with an opponent right behind him.
🔍 Cause: Poor scanning or breakdown in communication.
✅ Solution: Set clear passing rules in training: only pass if the player has at least one free side.
6. Lack of passing options (static teammates)
🧩 Example: The goalkeeper has no passing lanes because defenders are static.
🔍 Cause: Poor organization in the build-up structure.
✅ Solution: Work specifically on defender and midfielder movement to offer at least two options at all times.
7. Ignoring the principle of progression
🧩 Example: The team recycles short passes without intention to advance.
🔍 Cause: Fear of losing the ball results in safe but unproductive play.
✅ Solution: Clearly define progression principles — when and how to collectively move forward with purpose.
✅ Conclusion
Building from the back is more than just short passing — it’s about confidence, timing, tactical clarity, and fast decision-making.
A well-trained goalkeeper can be the starting point of a dangerous attack, but without proper team structure and preparation, this phase can become a vulnerability.
The key? Fully integrate your goalkeeper into the team’s collective tactical identity — both mentally and structurally.
🚀 Want to master build-up play from the back?
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