This article was written by Chris Rue, Rush Soccer’s Global Futsal Director
The fixo position in futsal could be considered the most vital position on the court. Strong, quick and vocal, this player is in the center back of the diamond and typically breaks up the opponent’s attack and starts the offense. A team’s success can be attributed to the quality of their fixo. With leadership qualities similar to a point guard in basketball, they become the court general and are very comfortable with the ball in possession, even when pressed. They can anticipate the game to intercept passes and start counter attacks, either by penetrating on the dribble or with a pass. A high level fixo has a great passing range with different techniques to find the pivot, but above all, their bravery to block shots can be considered their greatest asset.
When developing a player, coaches should encourage experiencing this position. The level of concentration required to play fixo is very high. Anticipation, bravery, and good decision-making attributes, both offensively and defensively, are key characteristics. They often use deception in their passing with no look passes, sole delays with scoops, and little flicks to evade defenders. The fixo should be comfortable with the ball under pressure. The ability to see past the first pressing defender with confidence combined with the spatial awareness to deliver the telling pass or penetrate with the dribble from deep, will create scoring opportunities.
Watch Futsal fixo super star Wesley Bocão do the job!
A fixo is also very adept in the 1v1 tackle and will disrupt the opponent’s attack. Their communication to get the team in defensive shape is an important role for this position. The court general will also lay their body on the line to get that last ditch block in to stop shots, encouraging teammates to do the same. Energy, courage and bravery displayed by this player is contagious.
In my experience with futsal, I find it interesting that the game flips a bit, positionally speaking, from soccer. Strikers and attacking midfielders make some of the best fixo players whereas defenders make for good pivots. This may be one of the reasons players find the futsal experience so enjoyable. They get to play in different positions to develop other aspects of their game. The fixo position carries a lot of responsibility on the team. Players should all see the game and feel the pressure from this position as it will enhance their development and understanding of the game.
There’s a special beauty in watching a fixo play his part. Nothing defines them better than brave hearts and smart feet.