Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Combining Midfield and Forward Lines

Introduction (15 mins)

Organization:

Two fields 12x15 yds each.

1 ball per field.

2 teams of 3 plus 2 neutral

Instructions:

Ball starts in either half.

Team in possession must complete 5 passes in one half then play to the neutral in the other half = 1 point.

Continuous, when ball is played to other half, the team who earned a point is looking to transition quickly to get 5 passes in that half and earn another point by playing back to the neutral in the opposite half.

Keep track of points.

2-3-minute games. Every team plays as neutrals.

Coaching Points:

Quality of first touch

Quality of pass

Think forward, play forward

Team shape in build up half (Width, distance)

Progressions:

Neutrals cannot play to neutrals.

When ball passed to the neutral, she has one touch to pass the ball.

Regressions:

Once a team gains possession, one defender on the opposite team must only defend side-to-side on the transition line. Other defenders can move freely.

Progression 1

Progression:

Remove 3 pass minimum in buildup.

Player on the ball in buildup half can dribble the ball to the attacking half

Conditioned game (30 mins)

Organization:

Teams of 4-7 players

Instructions:

Regular goal count as 1

Scoring by shot is a 2 goals

Scoring after a combination is a 3 goals

Coaching Points:

Shape in buildup half.

Forward/penetrating pass as cue to get forward to support.

2nd attacker tatics - Immediate support, quick combinations.

3rd attacker tactics - Exploit space.