Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Defensive Transition from Zone 4 to Zone 3 Centrally

Introducing Defensive Transition from Zone 4 to Zone 3 Centrally (20 mins)

Defensive Transition - Zone 3 and Zone 4 - Press or Compact

Equipment 

Cones: 6 Red, 2 Yellow

Pinnies: 1 Green, 5 Blue, 5 Red

Balls: 12 Balls 

Area: 25 Yards x 25 Yards 

Key Players Observed

For the Press: Center midfielders (primary), Center Backs (Secondary)

For Forming a Compact Block: Forwards (Primary), Center Midfielders (Primary & Secondary), Center Backs (Secondary)

Instructions

 - Set up teams to play 8+GK (alternate keepers) v 7+Supporting attacker

 - Start 1: - Blue Supporting attacker plays a pass into their team and look to score on the goal in a 7v8 scenario. The supporting    attacker can be played any time but cannot leave their zone and is on 2 touches.

 - Start 2: - Red GK starts build up from back and blue team defends against the buildup

 - Each ball has a maximum of 2 transitions and then it is dead and restart from either the support player or GK (coach's decision).

 - If red team wins the ball they have 2 mini goals (or gates) to score on. 

Coaching Points 

Press

•  Immediate mentality change upon losing possession
• Identifying moment of ball loss and establishing pressure (from closest player)
• Win the ball back within the opponents next 3 passes
• "Hunt" as a group

Compact

•  If defensively unbalanced drop and protect space behind
•  Direct ball to flanks while eliminating forward passing lanes
• Compactness between players  (~5 yards) and between lines (~7 yards)

Defensive Principles

• Delay
• Restrain
• Compact
• Control
• Deny