Set up 4 goals that are 12-15 yd across from each other. Players divided evenly at each goal. Each player with a ball. Players play 1v1. Attacking player starts with ball and is attacking the goal directly across. Blues start, then reds go. Continuous play. Variations: 1) 1v1 across. 1v1 blue to blue. 1v1 red to red. Rotate attacking side. 2) Blue attack opposing goal with red defending from the side. 3) 1v1 from behind. Blue starts with next player in line tracking from behind to play 1v1.
Approach fast, arrive slow. Jockey the attacker. Light on toes, weight on back foot, keep feet underneath with small steps, not big steps. Force attacker to weak side/foot. Use of arms. Use sideline as 2nd defender Eyes on the ball. Look for attacker to be off balance & go in for tackle. Confidence in the tackle.
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
sportplan_football
Deliberate heading is now out of U11 grassroots matches. Here is how to coach chest, thigh and foot control so your players still win the ball in the air.
Long-range goals doubled at the 2026 World Cup as teams sat deep. Here is how to coach when to shoot from distance, the technique, and the follow-up.
Under FutureFit, your Under-9s stay at 5v5, your Under-11s stay at 7v7 and your Under-13s stay at 9v9. Same pitch, same numbers, one more year. Here is how to make sure that year feels like a step forward rather than a repeat.
