Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): 7+ Advanced - Dribbling to penetrate

Introduction (10 mins)

Organization:

- Groups of four.

- One ball per group.

Instructions:

- One player (attacker) positioned inside area with soccer ball. Remaining three players on the outside.

- Attacker dribbles ball and attempts to leave the square from the free side. Defenders maneuver around the outside of area and attempt to block the attackers exit. Attacker can not leave area if defender is positioned in that side.

- Switch roles after 1 minute, or after attacker successfully exits square, whichever comes first.

Coaching Points/Questions:

- Messi touches to keep ball close and allow for quick turns.

- Head up to identify space, and opportunities to break out of square.

- "How does your touch change once you identify the gap?"

Regressions/Progressions:

R - Defenders on outside with a ball each.

Progression 1 (30 mins)

Progressions:

- One attacker removed and replaced by additional active defender, creating 2v1 in the area. If defender wins the ball, look to score in mini goal. First defender still positioned behind gates.

Conditioned Game (20 mins)

Organization:

- 3v3 scrimmage

- 3 gates on each end line.

Instructions:

- Attacking team scores by dribbling ball through any of opponents three gate goals.

- Dribble or pass in on restarts.

Coaching Points/Questions:

-Encourage the players in possession to take risks when dribbling. "When you see the space, penetrate".

-"How can you help create space for your team mate on the ball?"

-Praise positive play.

Regressions/Progressions:

- R: Widen the gates

- P: Remove one gate from each side