The principle of Compactness is a fundamental defensive tactic that focuses on reducing the space between defenders and minimizing gaps within the team’s defensive shape. By staying close together and moving as a unit, defenders create a “compact” formation that limits the opponent’s options, making it difficult for them to find space to penetrate or create scoring opportunities. Compactness is especially effective in congesting central areas of the field, forcing attackers to play wider or attempt riskier passes that are easier to intercept. 

To maintain compactness, defenders need to constantly adjust their positioning based on the location of the ball, shifting laterally and vertically to stay connected with teammates and eliminate spaces where attackers could operate. This requires good communication, awareness of each other’s positioning, and quick, coordinated movements to avoid leaving any openings.