In order to execute their version of counter-pressing, Dortmund attacked with a narrow shape. Dortmund would usually focus their play down one side of the pitch. With the goal of breaking through on this side or regaining possession quickly after losing the ball with their compact shape. They used the sideline as an extra player increasing the effect of the Gegenpress by further limiting the passing options for the opposition.
Once the ball was turned over the full effect of the Gegenpress would be unleashed with lightning-fast counter-attacks cutting through disorganised opposition defences. Klopp himself stated that “Gegenpressing is the best playmaker” with Dortmund creating high numbers of chances through their counter-pressing game.Ĭompare this to Liverpool and you can see how the press has been refined over time. As mentioned above the teams attack differently with Liverpool generally facing teams using a low block forcing them to remain more patient in attack, they averaged close to 60% possession over their title-winning season. Liverpool’s version of the counter-press is more about preventing teams from counter-attacking them, before rebuilding their own attacks as their options to counter in a similar manner to Dortmund are limited due to the more cautious approach of their opponents. Klopp has developed his teams pressing triggers, looking back at the old games of Dortmund you can see they set up in a mid-block in a 4-4-1-1 formation.
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