Counter Attack is the football board game that will make you feel like a real team manager. Each match lasts 90 minutes of pure tension, and you control 11 wooden pieces on a hexagonal board that resembles a real football pitch. Before the whistle blows, you build your squad by selecting 11 player cards, each with unique stats – speed, dribble, heading, pass, resilience, shooting, and tackling – that will dictate how they act on the field. What truly sets Counter Attack apart is the blend of cards and dice: when a player attempts to dribble, score, or defend, the outcome depends on their stat plus a dice roll. This brings a level of simulation that feels like a computer game, but with the excitement of a tabletop experience. The game also covers all the nuances of football: corners, fouls, penalties, yellow and red cards, injuries, and even a referee who can be more strict or lenient. The movement‑point mechanic ensures strategic movement, and the sand timer keeps the pace brisk, as if it were a video game. The open‑draft mechanic lets players pick cards from a visible pool, creating competition for key pieces. The experience is approachable, but not kiddie‑ish: the depth lies in every decision, from squad selection to executing tactical plays. If you enjoy sports strategy games and don’t mind consulting the rulebook for every play, Counter Attack is a great pick for those who want to feel the pressure of being a top‑tier manager.

The game was crowdfunded on Kickstarter and published by LongPack Games, and it’s also available on Tabletopia for online play. The average playtime is 60 to 90 minutes, ideal for quick or longer sessions. If you’re after a football game that blends strategy, simulation, and a good dose of randomness, Counter Attack is what you need.