Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Affiliates Newsletter June Activity

1v1 Duel - Back to Goal20 mins

Session Organization:

• 24x20 (L&W). With two gates (Blue cones) placed in the corners away from the goals.
• Position goals so the two mini goals represent one big goal. All shots in between will be classed as a save by the imaginary Goalkeeper.
• Both players must be ready in the middle to begin the activity. A diagonal pass will be played by either of the players beyond the gates to begin the 1v1 (Striker - 9 vs Centre back - 4) duel. Striker wins the duel by scoring in either mini goal. Defender wins by gaining the ball and completing a pass through either gate.
• Start the activity beginning on the Striker's first touch. Progress into both players battling for position before the pass is made and either player can get the first touch.

Coaching Points:

• Body position - Prepare to receive the ball by positioning your body between the defender and the incoming ball - This allows your teammate to find a pass to feet in a dangerous area of the field.
• Feel the pressure - Engage the defender before the ball arrives - Defender will naturally engage back, now you can feel which side the defender is trying to apply pressure. Use this against the defender by moving the opposite way with an active touch to create separation.
• Quick Effective Finishing - Use limited touches to get a shot away before any defenders can recover - Become comfortable finishing using one or two touches, defenders are desperate to block and pressure especially inside the penalty box.