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The moment possession changes hands. Attacking transition means winning the ball and going forward before the opponent can organize. Defensive transition means losing it and either pressing immediately or sprinting back. Both sides are vulnerable during transitions, which is why tactical analysis focuses on them so much. Teams that handle these moments well can control games without dominating possession.
Real Madrid's Champions League run in 2021-22 showcased devastating transitions - Vinícius Jr. and Rodrygo would sprint forward the moment Madrid won the ball, catching elite defenses in disarray and creating the chaos that produced countless comeback victories.
Robbie
Feb 3, 2026
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