Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Deny Progress / Win Ball - High Pressing

Nearest Player Press (25 mins)

Organization/Setup:

• 30x30yd Grid (size varies depending on # of players)
• 6v6 +2
• GK is inside 7x7yd box within grid, another neutral floats in larger grid
• Play 7min then switch neutral player, 3 rounds

Instructions/Achievement Criteria:

• Team in possession must connect 10 passes = 1 point, then can finish in any mini-goal
• Pressing team must close DGC (Direct Goal Channel = pass to inside grid GK)

Coaching Points/Questions:

Defending:

• Press - ASET All Sprint Engage Trust
  • 1st defender get touch tight to the player in possession, preventing them from playing the ball around them.
  • Hunt Together - 2nd & 3rd defender press nearest passing option
    • Furthest defenders close distance and stay compact together
• Forecheck: Defenders ready for forward defending, step in front of opponent to win ball

• Create and maximize space with off-ball movement to support passing angles
• Open body shape to see all teammates to make best decision
• Open hips to receive on back foot and take positive first touch
• Catch & play - take 2 touches for quick speed of play with quality
• After pass is made move into space to receive give & go, movement to receive the NEXT pass

• Progression: 2 Touch Limit for all players
• Regression: Add another neutral player

Def in Def 1/3 (30 mins)

Organization/Setup:

• 8 v 7+GK

Instructions/Achievement Criteria:

• Play begins with attacking team Blue 8 v 7+GK
• Red Defend and counter to 3 mini-goals

Coaching Points/Questions:

• In Possession:
  • Create and maximize space with off-ball movement to support passing angles
  • Open body shape to see all teammates to make best decision 
  • Open hips to receive on back foot and take positive first touch
  • Catch & play - take 2 touches for quick speed of play with quality
  • After pass is made move into space to receive give & go, movement to receive the NEXT pass


• Against the ball: 
  • Recognize defense is outnumbered, delay opponent and keep two lines compact
  • Close DGC, get compact/stay compact in 2 channels (half width of field)
  • When we press, ASET (get lines up together)
  • Body position on half turn unless moving line up (communication stay in line)