Regardless of formation used, a zonal defense is normally concentrated on denying the opposition time and space on the ball. This is frequently done by using short and narrow defensive shape.
Above we see Leicester City defensive organization in the middle third. You can notice short distances between the lines and narrow width of the defensive unit. They have high concentration of players in the center of play allowing them to control the spaces.
An attacking unit, in this case Arsenal, play in their hands as they use very narrow offensive shape. This congests the space available forcing them to play backwards.
Above is an example from Leicester match against Liverpool. You can see Clyne on the far side offering an option to switch the point of play.
While this appears more like an attempt of “an overload to isolate”, simple switch of point of attack is different. “Overload to isolate” intentionally move players towards one flank (like LFC above) in order to isolate the lone player on the far side.
A switch of point of attack is part of “overload to isolate”, as obviously, the ball switches the flank, but simple “switch of point of attack”, doesn’t necessarily include an intention to overload one side. It can be used during throw-ins and, very effectively, during transitions.
Above video explains some basic concepts of the switch of point of attack:
- A link-up player with good positional awareness, ball control and off the ball movement
- A player on the weak flank able to use 1v1 situations
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