Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): 9v9 training (Defense in our half)

8v7+1G (30 mins)

Mark out a 40 x 50-yard field with a 5-yard-deep end zone on one side and a goal on the other. Teams play 8 v 7 + GK (Blue v White). Blue attacks in a 3–2–3 formation. Blue scores on the goal. White defends in a 1–4–2–1 formation. If they win the ball, they can score by dribbling into the end zone. Play until out of bounds or one of the teams score. Ball always restarts with the coach who serves to the Blue team.

Objective

To stop the opponent’s attack.

Key words:

Defend together, move with the ball as a unit ("travel when the ball travels"), pressure, cover, (balance)

Guided Questions:

As a group, what do you need to do to keep opponents away from your goal 2) What should you do as the defender closest to the ball? 3) Which passing options do you need to cut off? 4) What kinds of passes do you want to force them to play instead? 5) How can the GK help in defense?

Answers

1) Form a compact block and move with the ball. 2) Put pressure on the ball; block forward passes and dribbling runs; mark the attackers closest to the ball. 3) Forward passes. 4) Back passes or square passes. 5) By organizing the players in front of him/her.

8v6+2G harder (30 mins)

Same as 8v7+1N but play 8v6 plus a target player (zone side)

White can score in the zone or a pass to the target player (2nd goalie.)