Written by Abbie Sadler
Being Compact
Being compact when out of possession is key in stopping the opposition from playing through.
Coaching Objectives
This drill will work with players on being compact, keeping good distances between lines and trying to shape the press to show outside.
Drill Setup
- 25 Mins
- 18 Players
- 3 Goals
- 18 Bibs
- 60x40 y
What the Players Do
18 players arranged 8v8 plus two neutral players who operate in wide channels. Ball starts with blue GK. Aim of the game is to try and play through midfield. Team in…Delay and Play
Delaying the opposition is an important principle to help you win the ball back, this drill will help players understand how and when to do this.
Coaching Objectives
In this practice players will develop their understanding on how to delay the opposition and make a 2v1 situation a 1v1.
They will also work on playing quickly when regaining possession.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 8 Players
- 2 Goals
- 8 Bibs
- 15x10 y
Technique Tips
- Attackers: Use quick changes of pace and direction to beat opponents.
- Defenders: Stay low, show attacker onto weaker side, delay rather than dive in.
- Support: Time movement and passes to create effective angles.
What the Players Do
Coach plays a ball into one of the central attackers. Attacker attempts to beat defender 1v1 and score. Attacker may use supporting outside teammate for wall passes or to reset possession. If…Defend and Maintain
Develop tight-area possession, aggressive pressing, and instant transition into overload attacking situations in an expanding space game.
Coaching Objectives
This drill develops players’ ability to retain possession under pressure in tight spaces, while training defenders to press intelligently and win the ball. It then transitions into an expanded overload game, encouraging quick reactions, forward thinking, and exploiting numerical advantages. Players improve decision-making, awareness, and adaptability between compact and open game scenarios.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 12 Players
- 12 Bibs
- 30x20 y
Technique Tips
- Quick Passing:
Short, sharp passes to maintain possession in tight areas. - Body Shape:
Receive side-on to play forward quickly upon transition. - Scanning:
Constant awareness before receiving the ball. - Explosive Transition:
Immediate reaction when possession changes. - Support Play:
Create angles and distances to offer passing options. - Defensive Pressing:
Work as a unit—one presses, others cover.
What the Players Do
Starting Phase (5v3 Possession): 5 black players keep possession inside the 12x12 inner box. 3 red defenders press to win the ball. Focus on quick passing, movement, and support angles.…Continue Reading For Free
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