I need to block the opponent from potentially winning by placing an 'X' at position 2,2, which would complete their row at the bottom. Additionally, by placing my 'O' at 2,2, I create a diagonal threat from top-left (0,0) through the bottom-right (2,2). This gives me a potential winning path for my next turn, as I could win by placing an 'O' at position 1,1 to complete the diagonal - though that space is already taken by my opponent. This move is primarily defensive while setting up future winning possibilities.