FootballA cutback is a backward or diagonally backward pass from an advanced wide position toward a teammate arriving farther from the goal line. It differs from a cross sent straight across the face of goal.
What to watch
Defenders retreating toward their own goal may struggle to track a runner arriving behind them. The passer’s timing and the receiver’s ability to find an unoccupied lane are more important than simply reaching the end line.
An illustrative example
A winger reaches the end line and rolls the ball back toward the penalty spot for a midfielder arriving late. Watch whether a defender covers that lane and whether the receiver can shoot cleanly.
Avoid this mistake
A cutback is not automatically a high-quality chance. Pressure, pass accuracy, shot location, and the number of defenders in the way still matter.