FIFA report on World Cup identifies counter-pressing as defining trend

Geneva, Oct 3 (UNI) FIFA published a post-tournament report of the 2026 World Cup, saying the tournament showed the trend of counter-pressing and a redefined role of the goalkeepers. The report, compiled by FIFA's Technical Study Group and the FIFA Football Performance Insights Department, analyzed all 104 World Cup matches to find tactical innovation, evolving player roles and new pathways to success at the highest level. According to FIFA, counter-pressing is a double-edged asset identified as one of the competition's defining trends. "The top teams regularly succeeded in turning a loss of possession into an immediate attacking opportunity," it said.…