7v6, Zonal Defending

Organization:

Area: Half field

The teams play 7v6, with the team of seven playing in a 1-2-1-3 formation and the team of six playing in a 1-4-1 formation. The team of seven tries to score on the opposing GK, and the team of six scores by passing the ball in the air to the opposing GK. Start off with two touch limit for the team of seven to guarantee quick ball movement. 

Variation: Play 8v7. The team of eight plays in a 1-2-2-3 formation. The team of seven plays in a 1-4-2 formation. 

Focus Points:

For the whole team:

• Push up together towards the ball and keep pressure on the ball together when you want to win the ball.
• Force the opponent to the sides, look for bad pass or bad first touch.
• Everyone needs to be connected and participate, including the goalkeeper. 
• After winning the ball, immediately attack.

For central defenders (4 and 5):

• Coach the midfielder in front of you. The midfielders should not get in between the two central defenders.
• Pick up the 10 of the opponents when they go deep. When the 10 receives the ball between the midfielder and the central defender, step up. 
• The distance between the midfielder and defenders cannot be more than 10 to 12 yards.
• Stop pushing up when there is no pressure on the ball.

For midfielder (6):

• Move with the ball. Recognize by how the opponent receives the ball and the situation where the ball is going to. 
• Cut off the passing lane to the 9 and 10. Listen to the coaching of the central defenders.
• Only hand over a mark when there is communication with the central defenders.
• Don't run all over the place. Keep the correct distance with the central defenders. 
• Step up, pressure the ball and don't get beat.