Robbie

The FIFA World Cup. International football's biggest tournament, held every four years since 1930 (with breaks for World War II). 32 teams qualify through continental competitions, then play a month-long tournament in the host country. Brazil have won it five times, more than anyone else. The 2026 edition expands to 48 teams and will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

An insult for strikers who score mostly from close range - the implication being anyone could tap the ball in from there. Used to dismiss prolific scorers by suggesting positioning doesn't count as a skill. Poachers would argue that being in the right place constantly is harder than it looks. Inzaghi got called this his whole career, but he won everything and scored in Champions League finals.

A big striker who wins headers, holds the ball up, and brings others into play. The team hits long balls to him, he brings it down or flicks it on, and teammates run off him. Different skill set from your typical striker: heading, shielding, strength, smart movement. Drogba, Andy Carroll, and Zlatan have all played the role. Less fashionable now with possession football everywhere, but still useful for certain tactics.

A first-time pass to a teammate, usually played backward or sideways to a player in a better position. Strikers receive the ball with their back to goal and lay it off to a midfielder; midfielders lay off to players with more time. The lay-off creates quick combinations and keeps the ball moving. Good lay-off play requires awareness of who's around you and soft enough touch to give your teammate a clean ball.

A centre-back who's good with the ball at their feet, able to play through a press and start attacks with forward passes. Modern systems that build from the back need defenders who can handle pressure and find teammates in tight spots. You still have to be able to actually defend, but now you need passing range and composure too. It's changed how clubs scout and develop defenders.