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Expert Football > Training > Coaching > Passing > The Back Pass

The back pass as an offensive weapon
The back pass is important in preserving possession of the ball, but it can also be used to initiate some dangerous attacking combinations. When a player is pressured in the corner of the pitch, his direct forward options are limited. It is important to provide back pass support anytime the ball is out on the wings, especially when playing in the opposing half of the pitch.

Turnover play
Even although this is a turnover play, it can still be considered a back pass. When analyzing strategy and tactics, we must look at what the players are trying to do rather than how they go about it.

Back pass support as a defense tool
When this play starts, black is in possession of the ball. By giving a safe back pass option, the player in the middle also ensures that if his teammate loses possession, he can provide backup. After the left player loses the ball, the black team rotates and assumes the same defensive formation.