Organization:
Area: 15y x 15y
Set up large cones in the grid. Work with two groups. Players dribble to the first cone and perform a 1v1 move, followed by a quick dribble to the next cone. At the next cone, the players make a turning move and join the opposite line to change directions. Use a variety of 1v1 moves and turns.
Coaching Points:
For Dribbling:
Lean forward and over the ball
Knees bent, on the balls of feet
Relax body
Balance is a must
Keep ball close
Use inside, outside, instep (laces) and bottom (sole) of both feet
For 1v1 Move Attacking:
Controlled approach (touch ball on every step)
Head up, see where the defender is
Begin the move at the correct distance from the defender
Quality of the move: weight and direction of the two touches, use of upper body to emphasize the fake
Accelerate out of the move
Head up, connect with your partner and play a good quality pass.
Area: 20y x 10y
The players are 1v1, with the attacker scoring on a small goal while the defender scores on a large goal with a goalkeeper. The game starts with the attacker dribbling the ball onto the field. For U12 age groups: after shooting at goal, the attacker becomes the goalkeeper. When the ball goes over the sideline, dribble the ball back in. The turn is over when a goal is scored or the ball goes wide over the endline. Rotate positions after each turn.
Game: Players keep track of the number of goals they score.
Focus Points:
Set Up:
Play begins with a pass from the Feeder to the neutral attacker stationed in the center of the field. From there, the neutral attacker passes to either of the players on the attacking team (the teams alternate possessions) to create the 3v2 to goal. If the defending team wins the ball, they attack the other goal with the help of the neutral attacker. Games are played to five, and the neutral switches out after each game.
1. Decision Making – Make deceptive runs with each pass and force the defenders to move.
2. Speed of Play – Push the dribble down the center of the field and commit the first defender.
3. Finishing – Take risks in the penalty area to create even better chances of finishing.
Progressions/Regressions
Progression 1 – Add a 1v1 inside of each half to create 3v3 plus one.
In this drill, cones are set up on the goal line, 2-3 yards away from the posts. The shooters start at the cone on the corner of the penalty area, and the passers start opposite them on the end line. When the pass is made, the shooter leaves the cone to receive, and then takes one touch before shooting on goal. His task is to place his shot between the cone and the goal post. As the drill progresses, the Coach can can for shots at the near or far post.
Area: 40y x 25y
Two teams play 5v5 (4+GK), starting in 2-1-1 formation. When the ball goes out of bounds, restart with dribble or pass.
When working with multiple teams, rotate teams in and out when a goal is scored (winner stays on) or every couple of minutes.
Place the resting team on both sidelines with soccer balls, so they can bring in a ball quickly when they go out of bounds. This will keep the game tempo high.
Game: Keep track of the score.
When the opponent is in possession, make the field small.
When your own team is in possession, make the field large.
After losing the ball, try to win it back as quickly as possible.
After winning the ball try to go forward as quickly as possible to create a scoring chance. Ten Second Rule.