Football/Soccer Session (Difficult): Pressing From the Front

Technical Warm-Up (10 mins)

Organization

4 mannequins/Cones arranged in a diamond. 

Players arranged with the mannequins as shown.

2-3 players at each mannequin

Activity

Players look to pass to the player on their right. As they make the pass, they move into the line to their left. The player on the opposite side of the receiving player looks to press the receiving player passively. Pressing player joins the line the moved to. 

Progression 1 - Players can play in either direction

Progression 2 - Pressing player no longer passive

Activity (25 mins)

Organization

1/3 of a mini pitch, mini goals at one end. 

3v3+GK

Coach with a collection of balls

Activity

Coach will play the ball into any of the players defending the GK. They look to score on the two minigoals. Defenders look to press high and deny forward progress, looking to trap the attackers and win the ball high. If they do they look to break quickly and score. 

Coaching Points

• Defending Principles of Play (Pressure, Delay, Cover, Balance, Patience)
• Communication with teammates is key (positioning, cover and balance)
• Look to trap attacking team by forcing them to play long.
• If ball is played to goalkeeper then look to deny short options. If there already are none, apply high pressure to goalkeeper.