Every soccer coach has their own set of beliefs and philosophies, which they convey through their players.
When a coach identifies a player who fully embodies their principles and values, a special bond is formed, transcending mere loyalty. They become like partners in a shared mission.
For Jesse Marsch, the head coach of Canada’s men’s national soccer team, that player is Ali Ahmed.
“I would argue that Ali has the most profound understanding of our tactical approach and game plan on the entire team,” Marsch stated prior to the friendly match against Australia in Montreal. “I hold Ali in high regard as a player more than any other coach has, because he grasps precisely what is expected from players in his position.”
Ahmed’s position on the field is on the left flank, where he operates as an attacking midfielder with a forward-thinking mindset – similar to Tajon Buchanan’s role on the right, albeit with a bit more industriousness.
“Always aiming for the goal, always pushing forward, always on the attack,” Ahmed revealed in an exclusive interview with CBC during the team’s recent journey to Romania and Wales. “I find pleasure in the playing style we adopt. I believe I possess the necessary athleticism and endurance to execute that style effectively.”
Marsch advocates for an aggressive, team-wide pressing strategy. He has assembled a squad of quick and physical athletes, training them to relentlessly press opponents, forcing hurried decisions and, ideally, errors. These errors often lead to turnovers, creating scoring opportunities.
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However, the pressing tactic, like any soccer philosophy, has its vulnerabilities. Playing with high intensity and failing to regain possession can leave defenders exposed, particularly vulnerable to long balls played over the top.
Pressing also demands immense physical effort. Fatigued players may deviate from their instructions, and in a game where small details matter, a single misstep could be the opening the opponent needs to capitalize.
Aside from Ahmed’s exceptional physical endurance – “I have a passion for running,” he remarked – his expertise lies in understanding how to execute the pressing strategy effectively. Although it may appear daring and almost chaotic, there is a method to their pressing. At their peak performance, Marsch’s players press akin to how wolves or orcas hunt: with coordination, where Ahmed often assumes the role of enforcer, the backbone of the charge.
Ali, like all players, makes errors, but in terms of his innate comprehension of the situation at any given moment, he is nearly flawless. Moreover, his endurance is unmatched.– Jesse Marsch, coach of the Canadian men’s team
“Although our style may seem risky, I believe