Ep 317: A Critical Skill Missing in American Soccer - Cambios de Ritmo

In this episode, I was joined once again by exceptional coach Joey Cascio to discuss what in Spanish parlance is called, “Cambios de Ritmo”.

In English, that translates to “Changes of Rhythm”.

Interestingly, that’s something you don’t hear much of – if ever – in American soccer. Not even in English football. You can watch the Premier League all you want, and you’ll rarely if ever hear of this concept.

Which is quite remarkable, as this is a critical and fundamental technique, strategy, tactic in this sport.

And if one doesn’t speak about it, or hear about it, in all likelihood one is totally oblivious to it.

In fact, it’s worse than that.

When the word “rhythm” is used in American soccer, it’s always used as a virtue.

Rhythm, as in its strict definition reads: “a strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement”.

So, what you’ll hear in soccer circles are things like:

The player has found his rhythm.
The team has found its rhythm.
They need to find their rhythm.

So on and so forth.

That, everyone understands – including the opponent.
That’s the superficial, first order stuff.

What’s not regularly understood, and what breaks equilibrium – which is what’s critical at the highest levels – are “changes of rhythm”.
Cambios de ritmo.