Football fans are eagerly waiting for the magic of long-ball game to be displayed at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Russia. Immortalised by Dutch legend Dennis Bergkamp with his goal against Argentina in the quarters of the 1998 World Cup held in France, long ball has always captivated lovers of the game.
In the Holland-Argentina match of 1998, Dutch defender Frank de Boer had sent a seemingly aimless long shot to Bergkamp over the heads of seven Argentine players. Though difficult to control, Bergkamp made a one-touch recovery, dribbled past a defender and shot the ball into the net.
The goal blocked Argentina’s progress in the tournament and shattered the dreams of its supporters. Holland fans may no longer remember that goal, but Argentina as well as lovers of the long ball game will always have memories of the episode.
What is it?
Long-ball tactics are rarely adopted at present, when the passing game thrives. In long ball, the passing is done from a team’s own box to a player in the opposite half. The long kicks of goalkeepers and defenders move a considerable distance in the air before reaching the forwards.
Long ball does not involve precise, clinical passes, but innocuous shots seemingly meant for nobody. The player which it is supposed to reach has to connect, keeping the members of the opposing team at bay. He should have the ability to control high balls. In Europe, this technique is called ‘kick and rush’.
An English tactic
Long ball originated in English football during the 1950s. Most of the goals scored in England with the tactic were generated in five or less passes. Studies were also conducted into the long-ball tactic. Critics have blamed the method for England’s downfall in world football. However, in the 1994 World Cup held in the USA, Brazil adopted this technique successfully. The South American team scored several goals in three or less passes and went on to be the champions.
Wrong ball game!
Though it has many admirers, long-ball tactic has attracted much criticism too. Those opposed to the long ball say that it is the last resort of teams adopting defensive play.