Organization:
Set up a field of 18y x 12y 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. 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. Two defenders step up to the six-yard line, while two attackers stand 12 yards from the goal. Both the defenders and attackers stand about 8 yards apart. The feeder passes the ball to one of two attackers and the 2v2 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 2v2 continues. Don't play any longer than 30 seconds per turn.
Game: Make two teams and keep track of the score.
Variations: Each turn last 30 seconds, even after a goal is scored. The attackers quickly ask for a new ball every time.
Progression: Make the field wider and play 3v3. (LINK) The three attackers start with ten yards of space in between each other. 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 2v2 game the focus points for attacking are creating a scoring chance quickly and score. For the defenders the focus points are defending with two (pressure and cover) and after winning the ball creating a 3v2 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 large and create space in depth and width.
- Make creative runs. Overlaps and underlaps.
- 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.
- Win the ball back at the right moment without making a foul.
Transition Attacking to Defending:
- Win 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.