Football is a game of strategy, skill, and… confusion? Yeah, especially when it comes to offsides. If you’re scratching your head after seeing Mbappé flagged EIGHT times for offside in the recent Real vs. Barça match, you’re not alone. 🧐
Let’s break it down in simple, bite-sized chunks — because NOBODY has time to rewatch those offside calls (except the refs, of course!).
What Even IS Offside?
Okay, here’s the deal: Offside is a rule that prevents players from cheating by hanging out too close to the opponent’s goal without any defenders between them and the goalkeeper. Imagine you’re playing tag. If someone hides too close to the safe zone and waits for you to run past, it’s not fair, right? That’s kind of what offside is all about.
But in football, the rule gets a little more technical. Let’s break it down:
- You are in an offside position IF you’re closer to the opponent’s goal line than BOTH the ball and the second-last defender when the ball is passed to you.
- BUT… you’re NOT offside if:
- You’re in your own half (the side your team defends).
- The ball is passed backward.
- You’re level with the second-last defender (just like a fair game of tag, no sneaky moves).
Simple, right? 😜 WRONG. Now let’s see how Mbappé managed to get caught 8 TIMES offside in a single game. Spoiler alert: He wasn’t paying attention. 😬
Why Do Players Like Mbappé Get Caught Offside So Much?
You’re watching Mbappé — one of the fastest players in the world — zoom towards the goal, only to see that pesky assistant referee raise the flag. AGAIN. What’s happening here?
It all comes down to timing and positioning. When players are eager to make a run behind the defenders to receive a through ball (fancy term for a long pass that splits the defense), they often risk being ahead of the last defender at the time of the pass. And if they are, guess what? OFFSIDE. Every. Single. Time.
What Went Wrong in the Match?
In Mbappé’s case, it seems like he was just a little too eager. His lightning speed is a blessing, but also a curse. When you’re THAT fast, it’s hard to hold your position and wait for the pass to be made before running into an offside position.
Eight offsides in one match means he wasn’t coordinating well with his teammates. The ball wasn’t being released quickly enough for his runs, OR he wasn’t looking over his shoulder to stay in line with the second-last defender. You could almost hear the collective groan of fans as the flags kept popping up.
How Can Players Avoid Being Offside?
For all you budding footballers out there (or if you just want to yell smarter things at your TV during matches), here are some quick tips on avoiding the dreaded offside flag:
- Stay In Line: Constantly check your positioning against the defenders. A quick glance over your shoulder can save you from the embarrassment of getting flagged offside (just ask Mbappé!).
- Time Your Runs: Don’t just sprint at full speed. Wait until the ball is passed or about to be passed before making your run. Trust me, you’ll still look fast, but now you won’t be caught offside!
- Communicate with Teammates: Players like Messi have perfected this art. They know exactly when to run and when to hold their position, largely because they have great communication with the playmakers behind them.
Fun Fact:
There’s a funny joke among football fans: “The only person who can stop Mbappé is the linesman!” 😂
Offside Calls: To VAR or Not to VAR?
VAR (Video Assistant Referee) has added a whole new layer of drama to football. Back in the day, if you were flagged offside, it was final. Now, with VAR, decisions are reviewed, and millimeter-perfect calls are made.
Sometimes, it feels like a player’s TOENAIL is offside, and the goal is ruled out. But hey, that’s modern football. Technology is here to stay, and players have to adapt. Mbappé, time to get out that measuring tape before your next sprint!
Wrapping It All Up
Offside may seem complicated, but with a little patience (and a lot of practice), it becomes second nature. Mbappé may have had a tough time staying onside in his match against Barça, but hey — even the best players slip up. If you can’t beat the offside trap, just learn to work WITH it!
Want to Dive Deeper Into Football Strategy?
Check out these links for more in-depth tips and tricks on mastering the beautiful game:
- FIFA Offside Rule Explained
- EA FC 25 Standard vs Ultimate vs Ultimate Loyalty Edition ( You will learn fast what Offside mean playing FC 25 )
So next time you’re watching a match and see the offside flag go up, you’ll know exactly what’s going on. No more confusion!