Organization:

Set up a field of 20y x 18y with one large goal and two small goals. The penalty box would be an ideal spot for this game.  The small goals are placed 9 yards apart on the 18-yard line. 

The size of the field varies depending on the goal of the activity, the age group and/or the skill level of the players. Older age group could play this game, for example, use the whole width of the penalty box and adding 5 yards in length.  

Place players at each side of the large goal (defenders) and next to the small goals (attackers).  The coach or feeder stands with soccer balls on the 18-yard line between the small goals. 

Three defenders step up to the six-yard line, while three attackers stand 12 yards from the goal.  The defenders and attackers stand about 8 yards apart from each other.  The feeder passes the ball to one of two attackers and the 3v3 starts.  The attackers score on the large goal with the goalkeeper, the defenders score on two small goals.  When the ball goes over the sideline, restart with dribble or pass. 

The turn is over when a goal is scored, or the ball goes over the endlines. Switch sides after each turn.

When the ball is going wide and over the endline after just a couple of seconds into the turn, the feeder can play a new ball to the attackers and the 3v3 continues. Don't play any longer than 45 seconds per turn. 

 

Game: Make two teams and keep track of the score. 

 

Variations: Each turn lasts 45 seconds, even after a goal is scored. The attackers quickly ask for a new ball from the feeder every time in goes out of bounds.

 

Progression: From 3v3 go to 4v4 whereby the players can use the full width of the penalty box, and the length of the field is 30 yards. 

 

Focus Points: 

In the 3v3 game the focus points for attacking are creating a scoring chance quickly and score. Keep the field wide. For the defenders the focus points are defending with three (pressure, cover, balance) and after winning the ball creating a 4v3 situation with the goalkeeper and scoring quickly.  This activity is full of attacking, defending and transition moments. Play this game with intensity. 

 

Attacking - Own Team in Ball Possession

Goal: Build up, create scoring chances and score goals. 

• Make the field wide to create space in depth. 
• Make creative runs. Overlaps and underlaps. Give and go and wall passes. 
• Make the decision to go for the 1v1 or pass. What is the best option?
• Make smart decisions; you want to go quick, but also value the ball and create the right moment to score. 

 

Defending - Opponent in Ball Possession

Goal: Disrupt the buildup, win the ball back, avoid goals against.

• First defender puts pressure on the ball.
• Second defender covers the first defender. 
• Third defender gives balance. 
• Win the ball back at the right moment without making a foul. 

 

Transition Attacking to Defending:

• Win the ball back as quickly as possible - 5 Second Rule.
• Protect your own goal quickly.
• Be organized defensively while attacking. 

 

Transition Defending to Attacking:  

• Quick goal-oriented action. Try to create a scoring chance as quickly as possible -10 Second Rule. 
• Explode and connect the first pass after winning the ball. Reaction.
• While the other team is in ball possession, certain players should anticipate the possibility of a turnover and to ATTACK.