Football | Defending Drills

Move the defender laterally to create space in which to dribble the ball and exploit the space behind the defender.

Move the defender laterally to create space in which to make the pass behind the defender. Attacker should make the pass through the goals at either end of the coaching square.

The attacker dribbles the ball in a confined space from left to right in order to try and move the defender. The aim here is not to get past your man but to reach the cones at either end before the defender by creating as much space as possible.

Two players with a ball each stand in a 10x10 square. Player 1 has 1 minute to tag player 2 as many times as possible on the shoulder. You must maintain possession of the ball at all times; if player 2's ball leaves the square then player 1 is awarded a tag. After every tag the tagger must retire to a corner. After 1 minute, player 2 tries to beat player 1's score.

Play 5 v 5 +1 goalkeeper at each end. Only defending players and goalkeepers are allowed in the end zones. The game is started by the coach playing the ball into an end zone. The object of the game is for the team to score with a shot on the opposite goal. A defensive player receives the ball from the goalkeeper at the top of the diagram. The defenders must attempt to pass the ball around the area until an opportunity arises to play the ball forward to the lone striker. Defenders and midfield players must then push forward toward the opposing goal line in support of the attack. Defenders and midfield players should retain position until they are able to play the ball forward without fear of losing possession.

Objective: Opposed practice developing recovery runs and increase understanding on roles and responsibilities. Detail: Mark out 4 channels / areas 15 x 30 (age / ability dependant). Players are organised into groups of 4. Each group work within a channel. Player one serves the ball to player 3 who attempts to beat player 2. Player 2 must retreat into own half before applying pressure.

Set up a line of defenders on both sides of your 18 yard box and two lines of attackers roughly in line with the edge of the center circle. On the coach's call the attackers should sprint towards the goal. At the same time the defender should run out and try to do the following: Get themselves between the attacker and the goal. Try to channel the attacker out towards the wing. Slow the attacker down to force their head down. If possible make the interception

The 4 players inside the blue square must protect the square and stop the ball carriers entering. To begin with the players inside the square are only allowed to shadow and block the outside players from entering. One point is scored by each player who successfully carries out their objective. If the defender wins the ball then the players switch roles.

The players each have a ball. On the coaches command the defending team comes in to the area and tries to kick all of the balls out. If a player gets his ball kicked out then they can stay in and help their team mates by finding space to receive a pass. If a player does a turn when pressurised by a defender then add 5 seconds onto the time.

Objective: Application of the individual & unit patterns/movements of defending with a 8 v 8 practice. Detail: Set up - Half a full size pitch with sidelines brought in 10m or 70 x 50 marked out. Split the players into 2 balanced groups of 8. Give each team a scenario for the game (for example Team A are losing 2-1 with 15 minutes to go). Select a team captain who will work with their team to discuss a strategy & tactics. Individual, unit & teams roles and responsibilities when defending (out of possession). When, where, what, how & why to press in specific areas of the pitch. Hunting in packs Goalkeepers angles & distances in relation to the defensive structure.