Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): U10 Using Width P2

Passing Sequence

Objective

To develop the players' ability to switch play effectively using long-range passing, with emphasis on speed, accuracy, and minimal touches.

Setup

• Players work in groups of 3 within pre-defined channels across the pitch.

• Positioned as:

  • Wide Player (W) – Central Midfielder (CM) – Opposite Wide Player (W)

• The CM is placed at an angle to receive and distribute as a playmaker.

Key Focus Points

• Ball Speed – Drive the pass with pace.

• Minimal Touches – Encourage quick decision-making and tempo.

• Body Shape – Play to the receiver’s back foot to promote fluid switches.

• Switch of Play – Fast and accurate long passes across the pitch.

Technical Challenges

• Can you receive and release the ball in 1-2 touches?

• Can you play to the correct foot of your teammate to aid their next action?

• Can you open up your body to switch the play quickly?

Progressions

✅ Variation 2

• Winger → CM → Winger → Switch

• The winger plays into the CM, who lays it back to the same winger.

• The winger then drives a long pass across to the opposite wide player.

• Focus remains on:

  • Combination play

  • Timing of movement

  • Accuracy under pressure

Coaching Points

• Communication: Verbal and visual cues to support movement.

• Movement off the ball: Create angles for passing.

• First touch: Prepare the ball for next action.

• Weight and direction of pass: Crucial for switching quickly.

Width in SSG

???? Game 1: 4v3 with Mini Goals

Setup

• Pitch Size: 40 x 20 meters

• Players: 4 attackers vs 3 defenders

• Goals: Mini goals at either end

Objective

• Encourage fast ball movement and effective use of space to create shooting opportunities against an overloaded defence.

Attacking Coaching Points

• Quick Ball Movement: Move the ball fast to shift the defense and find openings.

• Width in Attack: Stretch the pitch to create and exploit gaps.

• Weight of Pass: Deliver passes that allow teammates to shoot or pass quickly.

• Support & Angles: Provide options and movement for the next pass.

Defensive Coaching Points

• Compact Shape: Stay tight as a unit to reduce gaps.

• Communication: Constant talk to stay organized.

• Shifting as a Unit: Move laterally to cover space.

• Roles in Defense:

  • 1 Defender Pressing

  • 2 Covering & Reading Play

  • Know when to step in aggressively to regain possession.

???? Game 2: 2v2 + 2 Neutrals

Setup

• Format: 2 attackers vs 2 defenders + 2 neutral players 

• Numerical Advantage: 4v2 in possession

Objective

• Develop the ability to control tempo, use the overload, and create shooting chances through smart possession.

Attacking Coaching Points

• Use the Overload: Play through neutrals to create time and space.

• Tempo Control: Slow it down to draw defenders, then accelerate play to attack.

• Displace Defenders: Use quick passing to move defenders out of position.

• Final Action: Open space for shots and exploit it decisively.

Defensive Coaching Points

• Compactness: Stay narrow and protect central areas.

• Press & Cover:

  • 1 defender presses

  • 1 covers

• Don’t Get Pulled Out: Be patient and stay disciplined.

???? Challenge (Game 2 Specific)

• Can you dominate possession and draw defenders out before attacking?

• Target: 5 passes before attempting a goal