An underlap is the inside version of the overlap. Instead of running round the outside of the winger, a team-mate runs on the inside, into the gap between their full-back and centre-back. It's harder to track than an overlap because it goes through a space defenders are less sure who owns, and it arrives closer to goal.
Step 1 of 3
Our winger has it wide, their full-back tight. The space is inside, between full-back and centre-back.
Drawn for 11v11 4-3-3. Pick your own format and shape and every step is redrawn for your players. Then present it or send it to your team.
Step by step
Our winger has it wide, their full-back tight. The space is inside, between full-back and centre-back.
Our 8 runs inside the winger, through that gap. Their midfielder is too slow to follow.
The winger slips it into the runner's path, towards the byline.
When to use it
When the winger has the ball wide and their full-back is tight on them, when the outside lane is blocked, or when their centre-back is slow to cover across.
Coaching points
The winger holds the ball wide to keep the full-back out there.
The runner, usually the 8 or the full-back, goes inside the winger, through the gap between full-back and centre-back.
Time the run so it arrives as the winger is ready to pass.
The pass goes into the runner's path, towards the byline or the corner of the six-yard box.
The striker and far-side runners attack the box for the cut-back.
Who does what
Position
Their job
Winger
Holds width, keeps the full-back busy, releases the pass.
Underlapping runner (8)
Goes through the gap at speed.
Full-back
Stays outside as an option and covers if it breaks down.
Striker and far-side players
Attack the box for the cut-back.
When they change it
If they…
You…
Their midfielder tracks the runner
The winger now faces only the full-back: go 1v1.
Their centre-back steps across to block it
The striker is now 1v1 in the middle: cut back early.
The gap is closed
Overlap round the outside instead.
Common mistakes
Running before the winger has the ball under control.
Running into the space the winger wants to dribble into.
Nobody covering the 8's position behind.
At 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11
7v7
A central midfielder underlaps a wide midfielder in a 2-3-1.
9v9
In a 3-2-3, a central midfielder underlaps the winger.
11v11
The board: a 4-3-3 with the 8 underlapping the right winger.
