Football/Soccer Session (Difficult): Building Through Midfield 3-5-2

Activity 1

Organization

• 30x30 grid, split into quarters
• Three attacking players (midfield triangle) inside the grid along the lines, rest of attacking players arranged along the outside in a 3-5-2 formation
• Six defending players inside the grid

Activity

Attacking team looks to combine to keep possession from the defending team. Attacking 6 and 8 can move horizontally and the 10 can move vertically along the grid lines only. A maximum of 2 defenders can be in one quarter of the grid, creating 3v2 and 4v2 situations. Attacking team looks to make 6 passes to score a point and must include at least 2 passes from midfield players.

If defending team wins the ball, they look to make 5 passes and gain a point. They can only win the ball from the three midfield players, but can intercept passes from and pressure the outside players.

All passes must be made through the grid.

Progression: Two touch play for attacking team

Coaching Points

• First touches in the direction you are looking to play
• Play with pace to keep defenders chasing the ball. Do not let them get set up.
• Midfield triangle adjusts shape and angles to support and move ball from left to right and up and down the pitch
• Communication to alert teammates of incoming pressure

Game

Final Game. No restrictions.