The phenomenon occurs when multiple defenders are in position to challenge an attacking player, but due to hesitation, miscommunication, or uncertainty about responsibility, none of them step up to engage. As a result, the attacker faces less resistance than expected, often gaining space or time to advance. This defensive lapse is driven by a diffusion of responsibility, where each defender assumes another will take action, leading to collective inaction.
It was pressing paralysis at its finest, three defenders doing the ‘after you, sir’ routine while the striker waltzed through like he owned the place.
by ThinkingManCa April 04, 2025