Introduction
Soccer, the world’s most popular sport, offers children far more than just physical activity—it develops coordination, builds confidence, teaches teamwork, and instills a sense of fair play. The challenge for coaches and parents lies in creating training sessions that effectively develop skills while maintaining the fun and engagement that keeps kids coming back to the pitch. Traditional youth coaching often falls into one of two traps: either becoming too rigid and drill-focused (potentially extinguishing children’s natural enthusiasm) or remaining too unstructured (limiting skill development).
This comprehensive collection of 40 game-changing soccer drills strikes the perfect balance—embedding crucial skill development within game-like scenarios that capture children’s imagination and maintain their engagement. These drills have been designed with developmental appropriateness in mind, recognizing that children are not simply “mini-adults” but learners with specific physical, cognitive, and emotional needs at each stage of development.
Whether you’re a volunteer parent-coach navigating your first season, an experienced youth trainer looking for fresh ideas, or a parent seeking quality activities for backyard practice, these drills provide a roadmap for creating meaningful soccer experiences that children will both benefit from and genuinely enjoy. Each drill includes age-appropriate modifications, clear objectives, setup instructions, and coaching points to help you implement them successfully with your young players.
The ultimate goal of youth soccer coaching isn’t creating professional players—it’s nurturing a lifelong love of physical activity and the beautiful game. These 40 drills will help you build the positive, skill-developing environment that makes that possible.
Table of Contents
- Dribbling Drills
- Passing and Receiving Drills
- Shooting and Finishing Drills
- Defending Drills
- Agility and Coordination Drills
- Game Awareness and Decision-Making Drills
- Goalkeeper Drills
- Small-Sided Games
- Cool-Down and Review Activities
- Session Planning and Age-Appropriate Modifications
Dribbling Drills
1. Sharks and Minnows
Age Group: 5-12 years
Skills Developed: Dribbling under pressure, change of direction, ball protection
Equipment: One ball per player, cones to mark playing area
Time Required: 10-15 minutes
Setup:
Create a rectangular “ocean” area with cones. Select 2-3 players as “sharks” (without balls) while the remaining players are “minnows” (each with a ball).
How to Play:
Minnows start at one end of the ocean and must dribble to the other side without having their ball stolen or kicked away by the sharks. If a minnow loses their ball or dribbles outside the boundaries, they become a shark. The last remaining minnow wins and becomes the first shark in the next round.
Coaching Points:
- Keep the ball close when changing direction
- Use body position to shield the ball from sharks
- Keep head up to scan for open spaces
- Change speed and direction to evade sharks
Variations:
- For younger players (5-7): Make the ocean wider, use fewer sharks
- For older players (8-12): Make the ocean narrower, add “safe islands” (small circles) where players can stop and be safe for 3 seconds
2. Gate Dribbling
Age Group: 6-14 years
Skills Developed: Close control, dribbling with different surfaces, vision while dribbling
Equipment: One ball per player, 15-20 pairs of cones to create “gates”
Time Required: 8-12 minutes
Setup:
Set up multiple “gates” (two cones about 1 yard apart) randomly throughout the playing area.
How to Play:
Each player has a ball and dribbles around the area, trying to dribble through as many gates as possible in a set time period (e.g., 60 seconds). After each round, challenge players to beat their previous score.
Coaching Points:
- Keep head up while dribbling to spot open gates
- Use both feet and different surfaces (inside, outside, sole)
- Plan your path to efficiently reach multiple gates
Variations:
- Color-coded gates worth different points
- Specific foot or surface must be used for each gate
- Add defenders who guard gates
- Players must perform a move (e.g., pull-back, step-over) before going through a gate
3. Obstacle Course Dribbling
Age Group: 5-12 years
Skills Developed: Ball control, following instructions, agility with the ball
Equipment: One ball per player, various equipment (cones, hurdles, poles, ladders)
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create a circular obstacle course with 6-8 stations, each requiring a different skill:
- Slalom through cones
- Dribble around a circle
- Dribble through a “tunnel” (two tall cones with a pole across)
- Perform a specific move at designated points
- Balance beam dribbling (along a line)
How to Play:
Players take turns navigating the obstacle course as quickly as possible while maintaining control. Time each player, allowing multiple attempts to improve their time.
Coaching Points:
- Focus on technique first, then gradually increase speed
- Look ahead to prepare for upcoming obstacles
- Small, soft touches keep the ball under control
Variations:
- Add fun themes (dribble through the “dragon’s lair” or “pirate ship”)
- For older players: Add precision challenges (stop the ball in a target zone)
- Team relay races through the course
4. Soccer Freeze Tag
Age Group: 6-12 years
Skills Developed: Dribbling at speed, awareness, teamwork
Equipment: One ball per player, pinnies for taggers
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Define a playing area appropriate to your group size. Select 2-3 players as “taggers” who wear pinnies.
How to Play:
All players dribble their balls within the area while taggers try to tag them. When tagged, a player must freeze with their legs apart, holding their ball above their head. They can be unfrozen when another player dribbles their ball through the frozen player’s legs.
Coaching Points:
- Keep head up while dribbling to avoid taggers and spot frozen teammates
- Use changes of speed and direction to evade taggers
- Encourage awareness and helping teammates
Variations:
- Multiple balls can unfreeze a player
- Frozen players perform a skill (e.g., toe taps) while waiting
- For older players: Require specific moves to escape taggers
5. Traffic Lights
Age Group: 5-10 years
Skills Developed: Ball control, listening skills, reaction time
Equipment: One ball per player, red/yellow/green cones or cards
Time Required: 8 minutes
Setup:
Create a square playing area. Each player has a ball inside the area.
How to Play:
The coach holds up colored cones/cards representing traffic lights:
- Green: Dribble fast
- Yellow: Dribble slowly
- Red: Stop the ball and stand still
- Add additional commands like “reverse” (change direction) or “honk” (sit on your ball)
Coaching Points:
- Quick reactions to commands
- Maintaining ball control at different speeds
- Heads up while dribbling to avoid collisions
Variations:
- Add specific dribbling techniques for each color
- Introduce elimination for last to react (briefly do jumping jacks, then rejoin)
- For older players: Add more complex commands and directional changes
Passing and Receiving Drills
6. Pass and Move Squares
Age Group: 7-14 years
Skills Developed: Passing accuracy, movement after passing, communication
Equipment: Several balls, cones to mark squares
Time Required: 12 minutes
Setup:
Create a 10×10 yard square with cones. Place 4-5 players around the outside of the square and 1-2 players inside.
How to Play:
Outside players pass to inside players, who control the ball and pass to a different outside player before receiving another pass. Inside and outside players switch roles every 90 seconds.
Coaching Points:
- Quality of pass (weight and accuracy)
- First touch direction to set up the next pass
- Communication (verbal and non-verbal)
- Movement to create passing angles
Variations:
- One-touch only for more advanced players
- Add a defender to create pressure
- Specify which foot or surface must be used
- Create a points system for successful sequences
7. Triangle Passing
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Passing techniques, receiving on the half-turn, movement
Equipment: One ball per group, cones to mark triangles
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create several triangles with cones (sides approximately 5-7 yards). Three players position themselves at each cone of a triangle.
How to Play:
The ball starts with one player who passes to either teammate, then runs to the cone where they passed the ball. The receiving player controls the ball, passes to the third player, and follows their pass. The pattern continues with players always following their pass.
Coaching Points:
- Pass to the correct foot (furthest from defender)
- Receiving player should check to the ball
- Open body position when receiving
- Clear communication between players
Variations:
- Add a second ball for more advanced groups
- Require receiving with a specific foot
- Add passive defenders
- Create competition between triangle groups
8. Pass Through Gates
Age Group: 6-12 years
Skills Developed: Passing accuracy, teamwork, communication
Equipment: One ball per pair, multiple cone gates
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Set up multiple gates (two cones, 1-2 yards apart) throughout the playing area. Place players in pairs with one ball between them.
How to Play:
Pairs work together to pass through as many different gates as possible in a set time period (e.g., 2 minutes). They can’t use the same gate consecutively.
Coaching Points:
- Proper passing technique (inside of foot, planting foot, follow-through)
- Weight of pass through narrow targets
- Movement after passing to find new gates
- Communication between partners
Variations:
- Award different points for different colored gates
- Require alternating feet for passes
- For older players: Must pass through gates from a minimum distance
- Add time pressure or competing pairs
9. Four Corner Passing
Age Group: 7-14 years
Skills Developed: Passing, receiving, awareness, movement
Equipment: Several balls, cones to mark squares, colored pinnies
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create a 15×15 yard square with clearly marked corners. Divide players into four equal groups and position each group at a different corner.
How to Play:
The first player at corner A passes to corner B, then runs to the back of line B. The first player at corner B receives, passes to corner C, then runs to the back of line C. This pattern continues with players always following their pass.
Coaching Points:
- Quality and timing of passes
- First touch in the direction of the next pass
- Awareness of other players’ movements
- Communication between players
Variations:
- Add additional balls to increase difficulty
- Change direction after a set time
- For older players: Add defenders in the middle
- Create a competition with teams trying to complete the most rotations
10. Numbers Passing Game
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Passing accuracy, vision, communication, decision-making
Equipment: One ball, numbered pinnies/bibs, cones for boundaries
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Create a defined playing area. Assign each player a number and have all players move randomly within the area.
How to Play:
The ball starts with player #1, who must pass to player #2, who passes to player #3, and so on. Once the highest-numbered player receives the ball, they pass back to #1 and the sequence repeats.
Coaching Points:
- Constant scanning to locate the next number
- Clear communication to help teammates
- Create space to receive passes
- Quality of passes under pressure
Variations:
- Add a second ball starting with a different number
- Allow only 2-3 touches
- For younger players: Use colors instead of numbers
- For older players: Add defenders who try to intercept
Shooting and Finishing Drills
11. Cone Knockout
Age Group: 6-12 years
Skills Developed: Shooting accuracy, power control
Equipment: Multiple balls, cones or plastic bottles
Time Required: 12 minutes
Setup:
Place 5-10 cones (or plastic bottles) on the goal line. Create a shooting line appropriate for the age group (younger: 8-10 yards, older: 12-15 yards).
How to Play:
Players take turns shooting to knock down the cones. Each player retrieves their own ball after shooting. Count how many shots it takes to knock down all cones.
Coaching Points:
- Proper striking technique (laces or inside of foot)
- Plant foot position (beside the ball, pointing toward target)
- Head down, eyes on the ball when striking
- Follow through toward the target
Variations:
- Award points based on cone position (center cones worth more)
- Team competition to knock down cones fastest
- Must use alternating feet
- For older players: One-touch finishing from a pass
12. Goalkeeper Wars
Age Group: 7-14 years
Skills Developed: Shooting, goalkeeping, quick reactions
Equipment: Multiple balls, small goals or cones, goalkeeper gloves (optional)
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Set up two small goals facing each other about 10-15 yards apart with a halfway line marked between them. Two players act as goalkeepers, one defending each goal.
How to Play:
Each goalkeeper tries to score on the other by shooting from their own half while also defending their goal. Each round lasts 2-3 minutes. Players can only shoot from their own half.
Coaching Points:
- Quick transitions from saving to shooting
- Shooting technique under pressure
- Positioning as a goalkeeper
- Decision-making (when to catch vs. parry)
Variations:
- Add a 3-second time limit to shoot after making a save
- Grant extra points for volley goals
- For younger players: Roll the ball instead of throwing
- For older players: Allow only one bounce before shooting
13. Target Practice
Age Group: 5-12 years
Skills Developed: Shooting accuracy, power control
Equipment: Multiple balls, targets (hula hoops, towels, cones)
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Attach targets to different areas of a goal or set up target zones on the ground if no goal is available.
How to Play:
Players take shots aiming at specific targets, earning points based on target difficulty. For younger players, focus on hitting the target area; for older players, focus on placement into specific goal zones.
Coaching Points:
- Head down when striking
- Follow through toward the target
- Adjust power based on distance
- Use inside of foot for accuracy, laces for power
Variations:
- Moving targets held by coach
- Time challenges (hit all targets in shortest time)
- Must call your target before shooting
- Different points for different targets
14. Shoot and Follow
Age Group: 7-14 years
Skills Developed: Shooting, rebounding, movement after shooting
Equipment: Multiple balls, goal, cones
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create three lines of players about 15-20 yards from goal at different angles. First player in each line has a ball.
How to Play:
The first player in line A shoots, then immediately follows their shot to collect rebounds. As they shoot, the first player in line B begins their shot, followed by line C. Players rotate to the next line after shooting.
Coaching Points:
- Quick release shots
- Follow shot for rebounds
- Awareness of other shooters
- Movement off the ball
Variations:
- Add a goalkeeper
- Require a specific type of shot (e.g., laces, inside foot)
- Pass to a target player who sets up the shot
- For older players: Add defenders who pressure shooter
15. 1v1 to Small Goals
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Shooting under pressure, 1v1 skills, quick decision-making
Equipment: Multiple balls, small goals or cone goals, pinnies
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create several 1v1 fields with small goals at each end. Size should be approximately 10×15 yards for younger players, 15×20 yards for older players.
How to Play:
Players pair up and play 1v1 matches trying to score in their opponent’s goal. Games last 1-2 minutes, then players rotate opponents.
Coaching Points:
- Creating shooting angles
- Quick shooting when opportunity arises
- Protecting the ball from defender
- Body feints to create space
Variations:
- Must perform a move before shooting
- Award extra points for multiple goals in succession
- Limit touches (3-touch maximum)
- Play 2v2 for more advanced players
Defending Drills
16. Defend the Castle
Age Group: 6-12 years
Skills Developed: Blocking, defensive positioning, teamwork
Equipment: Multiple balls, cones, tall cones or “castle” objects
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Create a circular “castle” with a 8-10 yard diameter using flat cones. Place 3-4 tall cones/objects inside to represent castle towers. Divide players into attackers and defenders.
How to Play:
Attackers try to knock down the castle towers by shooting balls from outside the castle perimeter. Defenders inside the castle try to block the shots. Switch roles after 2-3 minutes or when all towers are knocked down.
Coaching Points:
- Defensive body position (side-on, knees bent)
- Blocking technique (without hands for field players)
- Communication between defenders
- Anticipation of shots
Variations:
- Adjust distance based on age/ability
- Limit defenders’ movement (must stay in zones)
- Add time pressure
- For older players: Defenders can only block with certain body parts
17. 1v1 Channel Defending
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Defensive positioning, patience, timing of tackles
Equipment: Balls, cones to create channels
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create several narrow channels (about 3 yards wide, 10-15 yards long) with small goals or target cones at the end of each channel.
How to Play:
One attacker tries to dribble through the channel and score while one defender tries to win the ball or prevent the attacker from scoring. Players switch roles after each attempt.
Coaching Points:
- Proper defensive stance (side-on, knees bent)
- Patience – don’t dive in
- When to pressure vs. when to delay
- Body position to show attacker to the outside
Variations:
- Vary channel width based on skill level
- Award points for defensive success
- For younger players: Defender only needs to force attacker out of bounds
- For older players: Add time pressure for the attacker
18. Defensive Shadow Work
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Defensive footwork, positioning, transition
Equipment: Cones, pinnies
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Create pairs of players in a defined area. In each pair, designate one player as leader and one as shadow.
How to Play:
The leader jogs around the area changing direction and speed while the shadow must stay 1-2 yards behind, mimicking all movements exactly like a defensive shadow. Switch roles after 60 seconds.
Coaching Points:
- Quick, small steps to change direction
- Body position – always half-turned
- Eye on the waist of the opponent (not the ball or feet)
- Maintain consistent distance
Variations:
- Add a ball for the leader to dribble
- Incorporate lateral movements only
- For older players: Shadow must maintain a specific distance
- Add competitive element – who’s the best shadow?
19. Defensive Numbers Game
Age Group: 9-14 years
Skills Developed: Defensive cooperation, communication, shifting
Equipment: Balls, pinnies, cones
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create a playing area approximately 30×20 yards with a goal at one end. Divide players into attackers and defenders.
How to Play:
Play begins with different numbered scenarios: 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, 3v2, etc. Attackers try to score while defenders try to win the ball and clear it past a designated line. After each round, change the numerical matchup.
Coaching Points:
- Defensive communication
- When to press vs. when to cover
- Shifting as a unit to close spaces
- Recover positioning when outnumbered
Variations:
- Start with advantage to attackers, then equalize (3v1 becomes 3v2, etc.)
- Add time pressure (attackers have 30 seconds to score)
- Defenders score points for successful clearances
- Transition to attack after winning the ball
20. The Wall
Age Group: 7-12 years
Skills Developed: Shot blocking, bravery, timing
Equipment: Multiple balls, pinnies, cones
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Create a “free-kick wall” setup with a shooting line about 10-12 yards from a goal. Defenders form a wall 8 yards from the shooting line.
How to Play:
Attackers take turns trying to score past the defending wall. Defenders can jump or move together to block shots but must start from the set position. Rotate defenders after 5-8 shots.
Coaching Points:
- Wall positioning and stance
- Covering the most dangerous areas
- Bravery and proper blocking technique
- Timing of jumps
Variations:
- Adjust distance based on age
- Allow wall to rush after whistle
- For younger players: Roll balls along ground only
- For older players: Add a goalkeeper behind the wall
Agility and Coordination Drills
21. Agility Ladder Races
Age Group: 5-14 years
Skills Developed: Footwork, coordination, quickness
Equipment: Agility ladders (or chalk/tape to create ladders), cones, timer
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Set up 2-3 agility ladders side by side with a cone placed 5 yards beyond the end of each ladder.
How to Play:
Players compete in relay races, performing specific footwork patterns through the ladder (e.g., high knees, lateral steps, hopscotch pattern), running around the cone, and returning to tag the next teammate.
Coaching Points:
- Quick, light feet (on toes)
- Arm movement synchronized with legs
- Head up, looking forward
- Quality of movement over speed
Variations:
- Different patterns for different age groups
- Add a ball to dribble after completing the ladder
- Create freestyle sections where players invent their own patterns
- For older players: Complex patterns with direction changes
22. Reaction Tag
Age Group: 5-12 years
Skills Developed: Reaction time, acceleration, agility
Equipment: Cones to mark area
Time Required: 8 minutes
Setup:
Create pairs of players who stand facing each other about 1 yard apart on a line. Designate one side as “light” and the other as “dark.”
How to Play:
When the coach calls “light,” the light players chase their partners who must run to a safety line about 5 yards away. If “dark” is called, the dark players become the chasers. Award points for successful tags.
Coaching Points:
- Ready position (knees bent, on toes)
- Explosive first step
- Acceleration technique
- Change of direction when evading
Variations:
- Start from different positions (sitting, lying down, etc.)
- Use colors instead of light/dark
- For younger players: Increase distance between partners
- For older players: Add a ball to protect while running
23. Cone Slalom Relays
Age Group: 6-14 years
Skills Developed: Agility, ball control, speed
Equipment: Cones, balls, timer
Time Required: 10 minutes
Setup:
Create multiple slalom courses using 6-8 cones in a line, 1-2 yards apart. Form teams of 3-4 players per course.
How to Play:
Players take turns navigating the slalom course, around a turning cone, and back to tag the next teammate. First team to complete all runs wins.
Coaching Points:
- Body position when changing direction
- Outside foot steering around cones
- Accelerating in straight sections
- Efficient tag-off to teammates
Variations:
- Add a ball to dribble through the course
- Vary the pattern (figure-8 around pairs of cones)
- Add obstacles to jump over between cones
- For older players: Must perform specific moves at marked cones
24. Mirror Footwork
Age Group: 7-14 years
Skills Developed: Coordination, reaction, focus
Equipment: None required
Time Required: 8 minutes
Setup:
Pair up players who face each other about 2 yards apart.
How to Play:
Designate one player as the leader and one as the follower. The leader performs soccer-specific movements (side steps, forward/backward movements, quick turns) while the follower mirrors them as exactly as possible. Switch roles after 45 seconds.
Coaching Points:
- Quick feet and reaction time
- Balance during direction changes
- Focus and concentration
- Soccer-specific movements (defensive shuffles, attacking runs)
Variations:
- Add a ball for the leader to manipulate
- Increase distance between partners
- For younger players: Limit to simpler movements
- For older players: Leader tries to “lose” the follower
25. Obstacle Course Challenge
Age Group: 5-12 years
Skills Developed: Multiple motor skills, coordination, following instructions
Equipment: Various equipment (cones, hurdles, poles, hoops, ladders)
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create an obstacle course combining various movement challenges:
- Hurdles to jump over
- Cones to slalom through
- Hoops to step through
- Ladders for footwork
- Balance beams (or lines) to walk along
How to Play:
Players navigate the obstacle course individually or in relay teams, focusing on proper technique at each station.
Coaching Points:
- Correct technique for each obstacle
- Smooth transitions between obstacles
- Body control and balance
- Course awareness (looking ahead)
Variations:
- Add time challenges
- Incorporate balls at certain stations
- Create themed courses (jungle adventure, space mission)
- For older players: Add decision-making elements (e.g., different routes based on coach signals)
Game Awareness and Decision-Making Drills
26. 3v3 to Four Goals
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Decision-making, spatial awareness, transitions
Equipment: Balls, cones for goals, pinnies
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create a playing area with four small goals placed on each side of a square field (approximately 25×25 yards).
How to Play:
Two teams of 3-4 players compete to score in any of the four goals. After a team scores, they must attack a different goal.
Coaching Points:
- Head up to see all options
- Recognition of least defended goal
- Quick transitions after winning possession
- Creating and exploiting space
Variations:
- Require minimum number of passes before scoring
- Award extra points for scoring in consecutive goals
- Add a neutral player who plays for team in possession
- For older players: Goals on opposite sides are worth more points
27. Numbers Soccer
Age Group: 6-12 years
Skills Developed: Awareness, reaction, teamwork
Equipment: Balls, pinnies, goals or cones
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create a playing area with goals at each end. Assign each player on both teams a number.
How to Play:
All players jog randomly around the area. The coach calls out a number (e.g., “3!”), and the players assigned that number from each team enter the field and play 1v1 until someone scores or time expires (30-60 seconds). Coach then calls a new number.
Coaching Points:
- Quick reaction when number is called
- Transition from jogging to game action
- Decision-making under time pressure
- Creating scoring opportunities quickly
Variations:
- Call multiple numbers for 2v2, 3v3, etc.
- Call odd/even numbers
- For younger players: Use colors instead of numbers
- For older players: Previous players stay on field creating progressively larger games
28. Pass and Decision Game
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Decision-making, vision, passing
Equipment: Balls, colored cones, pinnies
Time Required: 12 minutes
Setup:
Create a playing area with three colored targets/zones on each side. Divide players into teams of 4-5.
How to Play:
Teams pass the ball, trying to maintain possession. The coach occasionally calls out a color, and the team in possession must quickly pass to the corresponding colored target/zone to earn a point.
Coaching Points:
- Constant scanning of field
- Creating passing lanes
- Quick decision-making when color is called
- Movement off the ball to support
Variations:
- Limit touches
- Require a certain number of passes before playing to target
- For younger players: Use fewer targets
- For older players: Add defensive pressure or time constraints
29. End Zone Game
Age Group: 7-14 years
Skills Developed: Support play, movement, game understanding
Equipment: Balls, cones, pinnies
Time Required: 15 minutes
Setup:
Create a rectangular field with a 3-yard “end zone” at each end. Divide players into two equal teams.
How to Play:
Teams score by passing the ball to a teammate who receives it in the opposing team’s end zone. The receiving player must time their run into the end zone (cannot stand and wait there).
Coaching Points:
- Timing of runs into scoring area
- Support positions
- Vision and field awareness
- Creating space through movement
Variations:
- Add a “no defender zone” around end zones
- Require minimum passes before scoring
- For younger players: Allow larger end zones
- For older players: Receiving player must one-touch back to teammate
30. Overload Games (4v2, 5v3)
Age Group: 8-14 years
Skills Developed: Quick decision-making, passing under pressure, defensive principles
Equipment: Balls, cones, pinnies
Time Required: 12 minutes
Setup:
Create small playing areas (approximately 10×10 yards). In each area, set up overload situations (4v2, 5v3, etc.).
How to Play:
The team with more players aims to maintain possession for a set number of passes. Defenders try to win the ball; if successful, they switch with attacking players who lost possession.
Coaching Points:
- Quick decision-making
- Creating passing angles
- Movement after passing
- For defenders: Pressure and cover principles
Variations:
- Restrict touches
- Add a “target player” who must receive every third pass
- For younger players: Use larger areas
- For older players: Add directional element (must break lines with passes)
