Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Creating Space

3 vs. 3 with Triangle Goals (15 mins)

Organization:

-Create a 30 x 30 yard area. Play 3 vs. 3 or 4 vs. 4 depending on numbers. If uneven numbers use a neutral player. Create two triangle goals within the area.

Activity

-Both teams compete for possession of the ball and to score by passing the ball through the triangle. You can designate a goal for each team, then progress to scoring on either goal. To finish, once you score on one goal you must score on the other goal. Play to points or time

Coaching Points:

- Create space off the ball

- Emphasize supporting shape and balance in possession

- Change the rhythm to exploit opportunities to score

- Decision making and the speed of play

- Movement and timing of second - and third-man runs

5 vs. 5 + 4 (20 mins)

Organization:

Create a 44 x 36 yard grid. Play 5 vs. 5 in the middle with two goalkeepers. Have four neutral players - two on each side

Activity

Regular rules of soccer. Teams play for possession and attack the goal when possible. Target players can only be used to maintain possession or to create space in the attack. Play to points or time. Rotate targets

Coaching Points:

- Create space with appropriate movement, timing and angles

- Play the way you are facing

- Change the point of attack to reate space

- Disguise and deception of passes and runs is important second - and third-man runs is important