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A transition is the period in which a team changes from defending to attacking after gaining possession, or from attacking to defending after losing it. There is no single universal duration for the phase.
What to watch
The first few decisions shape the options that follow. After a regain, a team may counterattack or secure possession. After a loss, it may press immediately, delay the opponent, or recover into a defensive block.
An illustrative example
A fullback loses possession high up the field. The nearest midfielder pressures the ball while the center backs protect the space behind. Their roles differ, but their responses must work together.
Avoid this mistake
Avoid treating all fast play as transition play. Establish when possession changed and whether the opponent had time to reorganize.