CF (Centre Forward)
Short for Centre Forward. A centre forward (CF) is a forward whose primary responsibility is to attack and score goals. A Centre Forward plays a pivotal role in connecting midfield with the attack, acting as both a goal-scorer and a playmaker. Positioned just behind or alongside the main striker, they help dictate the tempo in the attacking third by holding up the ball, drawing defenders, and creating scoring opportunities for teammates while remaining a direct threat themselves.
Modern centre forwards are highly adaptable, contributing in multiple ways. They may drop deep to receive the ball, orchestrate quick passing moves, or make late runs into the box to catch defenders off guard. Their effectiveness comes from a blend of ball control, vision, physical presence, and tactical awareness, enabling them to excel in both open play and set-piece situations.
ST Roles and Tasks
- Goal Scoring
- Finishing Chances
- Holding Up Play
- Making Runs Behind Defense
- Winning Aerial Duels
- Pressing Opposing Defenders
- Linking Midfield and Attack
- Creating Space for Teammates
- Drawing Defenders Out of Position
- Exploiting Defensive Gaps
- Playing Quick One-Twos
- Running Channels Wide
- Supporting Midfield Transitions
- Leading Counter-Attacks
- Shielding the Ball
- Positioning in the Box
- Receiving and Turning Under Pressure
- Engaging in Physical Duels
- Providing a Focal Point for Attacks
- Dribbling in Tight Spaces
CF Types
Target Man
A strong, physical forward who excels at holding up play and winning aerial duels. Often serves as the focal point for long balls, using strength, heading ability, and hold-up play to bring teammates into attack.
Poacher
A goal-focused striker who stays high up the pitch, capitalizing on close-range opportunities. Relies on instinct, quick reactions, and precise finishing to convert chances inside the box.
Complete Forward
A well-rounded striker capable of scoring, holding up play, creating chances, and pressing defensively. Combines strength, speed, technical ability, and tactical intelligence to influence all aspects of the attack.
False Nine
A deep-dropping forward who links midfield and attack, creating space and disrupting defensive structures. Requires vision, passing ability, and high tactical awareness to manipulate opposition defenses.
Deep-Lying Forward
Operates in a withdrawn role, helping to connect play between midfield and attack. Excels in playmaking, passing, and creativity, often assisting with build-up play before making attacking contributions.
Advanced Forward
A direct and pacey attacker focused on stretching defenses with runs in behind. Thrives on exploiting spaces and positioning to get into goal-scoring opportunities.
Pressing Forward
A high-energy striker who applies relentless defensive pressure on opposing defenders, aiming to regain possession high up the pitch. Known for stamina, aggression, and defensive work rate.
Shadow Striker
Plays just behind the main striker, operating between the lines to exploit space. Contributes as both a creator and a goal-scorer, making late runs into attacking areas.
Wide Forward
Starts from a wide position but cuts inside to attack central areas. Often used in formations without traditional wingers, excelling in dribbling, pace, and goal-scoring ability.
False Target Man
A hybrid role combining the attributes of a target man and a false nine. Drops deep to link play but also provides a physical presence for hold-up play when required.
Second Striker
A support forward who operates behind the primary striker, focusing on linking play, creating chances, and scoring from deeper positions. Excels in vision, positioning, and technical skills.
Mobile Forward
A dynamic attacker who constantly moves across the front line, creating gaps and pulling defenders out of position. Key attributes include agility, intelligent movement, and adaptability.