Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): 1v1 Defending

Warm-up Knee Tag (20 mins)

Organization:

10 x 10 area's, 2 players per area

Instructions:

- Players play knee tag. If you tag opponents knee then you score the point or if you manage to force them out of the area without touching them.

- Play for 2 minutes before moving to play a new opponent.

Coaching Points:

1) On Toes.

2) Bend knees.

3) Side body shape.

4) Patience.

Progressions:

P-Addition of a ball to create 1 vs 1 game. 4 grids turn into 2.

Man-Marking Game (20 mins)

Organization:

40 x 25 yards area set up as shown

Instructions:

1. The game always starts with a pass from the Coach/Player.

2. The player that receives the ball plays 1v1 against their opponent to the goal, if he passes the ball to the second attacker it starts 1v1 with the second defender and become inactive the first two players.

Coaching Points:

1). Deny penetration.

2). The speed of approach.

3). The angle of approach, forces player on to the weak side.

4). Correct moments to tackle.

5). Tackling techniques.

Progressions/Regressions:

1. P – Defenders can guard two players each.

2. R – Allow 2nd defender to be active to provide cover.