The forward positions in soccer are the striker (center-forward), the wingers, and the second striker. These are the attacking players whose main job is to create and score goals. This guide explains each role — including the modern false 9 — and the attributes the best forwards need.
For how the forwards fit with the rest of the team, see our soccer positions and numbers guide.
The forward line at a glance
A front three (as in a 4-3-3) has a central striker flanked by two wingers; a front two pairs a striker with a strike partner or second striker. Whatever the shape, forwards lead the line and finish the team's chances.
Striker / center-forward (CF) — number 9
The striker is the team's main goalscorer, leading the line centrally.
- Job: get on the end of chances and finish them, hold the ball up to bring teammates into play, and press the opposition's center-backs.
- Attributes: finishing, movement in the box, strength to hold off defenders, and composure in front of goal.
- Types: the target man (big, strong, wins headers), the poacher (lives in the box, pure finisher), and the complete forward (does it all).
Winger (RW/LW) — numbers 7 & 11
The wingers attack from the wide areas on the right (7) and left (11).
- Job: beat full-backs in 1v1s, deliver crosses, and cut inside to shoot or combine with the striker.
- Attributes: pace, dribbling, and end product. They also track back to help their full-backs defend.
- Inverted winger: a left-footer on the right (or vice versa) who cuts inside onto their stronger foot to shoot — think Mohamed Salah or Arjen Robben.
Second striker (CF/SS) — number 10 role
In a front two, the second striker plays slightly behind the main striker.
- Job: link the midfield and attack, find space between the lines, and both create and score. A blend of forward and attacking midfielder.
- Attributes: creativity, movement, and finishing — essentially a number 10 playing higher up.
The false 9
The false 9 is a center-forward who drops deep into midfield instead of staying high. This drags center-backs out of position and creates space for onrushing wingers and midfielders. Pep Guardiola's Barcelona used Lionel Messi as a false 9 to devastating effect.
Frequently asked questions
What are the forward positions in soccer?
The attacking positions are the striker or center-forward (the central goalscorer, number 9), the wingers (wide attackers, numbers 7 and 11), and the second striker (a forward playing just behind the striker). The false 9 is a modern variation where the striker drops deep.
What is the difference between a striker and a forward?
"Forward" is the umbrella term for all attacking players, while "striker" usually means the central center-forward specifically. So every striker is a forward, but wingers and second strikers are forwards too. In everyday use, "striker" and "center-forward" mean the same central goalscoring role.
What is a false 9 in soccer?
A false 9 is a center-forward who drops back into midfield rather than playing on the last defender. By vacating the center-forward spot, they pull center-backs out of position and open space for wingers and midfielders to attack. Lionel Messi at Barcelona is the most famous example.
What makes a good striker?
Great strikers combine clinical finishing, intelligent movement to lose markers in the box, composure under pressure, and the strength to hold up play. The very best also press from the front and bring teammates into the game, not just score.
Build your attack
See how the forwards line up in any formation with the free RenderFoot lineup builder, and learn the rest of the team in our defender positions and midfield positions guides.
