Attack the middle third

1. Divide players into two teams, one team with an overload. Here we have a 5v4
2. Teams aim to disorganise their opponents to create goalscoring opportunities
3. Teams can maintain width and depth to create space in central areas

Practice 2

Set-up

Divide your area into thirds, with a smaller middle third. Place a full-sized goal at one end, and two gates just inside the far third. Teams play 9v9, including a goalkeeper on one team.

HOW TO PLAY

One team (Reds) aims to build the play to create chances to score in the final third, by dribbling through the two gates. The other team (Blues) aims to win possession and score in the goal.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

• If players are struggling to create overload opportunities, you can add a rule that says if a player plays into the next third, they must progress to the next third themselves to support the play. 
• You can also place a touch limit on players, but be mindful this may have trade-offs, such as limiting players’ decision-making and reducing opportunities to dribble into space.

Coaching points

• Encourage players to spread out and use the width of the field, and create 2v1 or 1v1 situations.
• Players should also look to change the point of attack and pace of the ball, and play forward through the middle third where possible to create chances in the final third.

1. Set out the pitch in thirds, with two gates in the final third at one end
2. Teams play with even numbers, but one team includes a goalkeeper
3. The Reds aim to score by dribbling through a yellow gate

Small-sided game 

Set-up

Divide players into two equal teams, each with a goalkeeper. Depending on numbers, you can set up using half a pitch, with a goal at each end. You may need a larger area if numbers exceed 8v8.

HOW TO play

Play a normal small-sided game. Play always starts with a pass from the goalkeeper to a centre-back. 

Players should be looking to use the full width of the pitch to create passing lanes, and, ultimately, create opportunities to cross the ball in behind the defensive line, or penetrate centrally.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

• This can be expanded to a full 11v11 game, if numbers allow.

COACHING POINTS

• Encourage players to read and understand the game to make autonomous decisions, take the initiative and be proactive in their actions.
• Tactically, players should be looking to create/execute diagonal passes to break lines. They should also decide on the appropriate moments to pass, dribble or hold the ball.

1. Set out on half a pitch with equal teams
2. Players should use the full width to create passing lanes
3. Players should look to create opportunities to pass the ball behind the defence, or penetrate centrally