Soccer Attackers vs Defenders Training Drill


Attackers vs Defenders

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Basic Information

Age Group (8-11yrs) (12-15yrs) (16-Adult)
Number of Players 7+
Difficulty Easy-Medium
Time 15-20 min.
Emphasis: Dribbling, Attacking, Defending

Field Preparation:

  • 2 teams
  • cones to mark off area
  • 1 goal with goalie
  • 2 mini goals
  • pinnies

Description:

  • one team (defenders) defends the goal with goalie and one team defends (attackers) the line opposite to the goal
  • defenders score by dribbling across the attacker’s end line with control
  • attackers score by passing into one of the two mini goals off a first touch or on the goal with goalie off a second touch
  • if defenders score, direction of play changes and they get to attack the goal with goalie and mini goals

Variation:

  • limit number of touches
  • add neutral player
  • adjust size of field if necessary

Coaching Points:

Attacking:

  • quick transitions
  • vision
  • angle, distance and timing of support
  • decision making
  • verbal and visual communication
  • create space for others
  • attack space behind defense

Defending:

  • positioning to provide cover and balance
  • intercept passes
  • squeeze toward center
  • track players
  • visual and verbal communication

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