midfield
n. C / U B1 Intermediate UK //mˈɪdfiːld// mid·field
n. the area in the middle of a sports field, like in soccer. It also refers to the group of players who play in that middle section.
n. the central portion of a playing field in sports such as football or hockey; by extension, the collective group of players positioned between the defenders and the attackers.
The ball stayed in the midfield for most of the game.
The coach decided to strengthen the midfield to help control the pace of the match.
Dominating the midfield is often the key to victory, as it allows a team to transition smoothly from defensive recovery to offensive pressure.
Usage
Often used as a collective noun to refer to the players; can be used as a modifier before another noun ('midfield battle').