Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): 7v7 Practice 21: 1v1 & 2v1 Defending with players back turned

Skill Development (15 mins)

Set up:

Group is split up into groups of 3.

Description:

Player 1 passes to 2. 3 is allowed to apply immediate pressure to 2. 2 is aiming to turn 3 and dribble to the end line. 3's aim is to prevent the turn, try to steal and play the ball to player 1. After each turn players change roles (1 goes to 2, 2 to 3 and 3 to 1). After a few minutes mix up the groups so players are playing against other ability levels.

Coaching Points:

Press quick

Touch tight with arm extended

Use arm as a guide to feel where the attacker is turning

Body shape - side on knees bent, ball of feet goal side / ball side

Conditioned Game (15 mins)

Set up:

Group is split up into half 3v3 with keepers and goals

Description:

Game has no corners or throwing. Ball always starts with keeper. If red kick it out white keeper starts with the ball. Attacking players start in middle section. Defenders on the outside. Once ball leaves keepers foot defenders may enter middle zone. The game becomes live from this moment. 

Coaching Points:

Press quick

Touch tight with arm extended

Use arm as a guide to feel where the attacker is turning

Body shape - side on knees bent, ball of feet goal side / ball side

Pressure and cover (roles of 1st and 2nd defender)

Four P's of defending when players face you. Pressure, Position, Patience and Power

Brief intro in 3rd defender role - balance