What Is Pitch Division?

Pitch division is a tactical term for dividing the football pitch into different zones and channels, which provides information to both coaches and players.

Generally, we can discuss different zone categorisations, but an accepted division consists of 18 zones distributed across the pitch.

The counting starts with number one, which is the bottom left corner just outside the penalty box, and then moves up to 18, with two being the box and three the bottom right corner.

Number four starts just above number one, and the count goes on like that until the top right corner is on the opposite side of the pitch.

When it comes to different lines, we can differentiate between vertical and horizontal lines, while channels generally refer to the space between players.

Other important tactical terms that are connected to the pitch division are half-spaces, underload, overload, flanks, channels and space occupation.

Examples of pitch division in football

Even though our standard pitch division divides the field into 18 zones in a six-by-three grid, channels, and lines, some coaches, like Pep Guardiola of Manchester City, have developed their own method.

The Catalan gaffer, for example, has divided the pitch into 20 zones instead of 18 and has added extra pockets that he feels need to be occupied for maximum effect.

Still, the single most important zone to occupy is zone 14, which is positioned centrally and just in front of the opposition’s box.

This is where the attacking team is trying to receive the ball and then progress into the penalty area.

This zone is important because it’s relatively close to the goal and in a good position to shoot or create.

On the other hand, however, defending tactics are often focused on overloading zone 14. 

Why Use Pitch Division?

Depending on their overall tactics, different coaches may emphasise different areas on the pitch.

Some may prefer progressing through the wide areas, while others are more central.

Some may also play more directly, bypassing most of the pitch entirely while advancing the attack.

But the pitch division plays a huge role in every tactical setup, as it allows players to understand their roles better and ease their information processing.

Therefore, properly employing the technique of seeing the pitch through zones, channels, and lines could lead to greater success.