Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Breaking Lines - Small sided game

In Possession (10 mins)

Area Size : 25yds x 40yds 

Player Numbers : 14 Outfield (7v7), 2 Goalkeepers

Timings : 10 minutes ( In possession ), 10 minutes ( Out of possession )

Equipment : Goals, Bibs, cones, flat markers and footballs

Organisation : Setup an 8v8 game in thirds with both teams playing a GK-3-3-1 formation. 

Explanation : The teams main objective is to try and create attacks using passes that break lines of either the midfield 3 or defensive unit. Players can move freely and are not locked into their zones.

Conditions : If a team can break a line in the opposition and a goal is scored within that phase, the goal counts as double.

Progression : Make it two touch to increase tempo.

Regression : Midfielders are locked into the middle third when out of possession but are free to move forwards or backwards when in possession.

Key Points : In Possession - Can the players find pockets of space to receive the ball. Can the players create depth to create space in central areas of the pitch. Can players create width to make the pitch as big as possible.

Out of possession - Can the players put pressure on the ball. Can the players cover and support an individual. Can the players stay narrow and close the gaps between players.