Soccer: Individual 1 v 1

Red defends blue. The blue player must try and beat the red defenders and reach one of the blue cones, with the ball still under control.

Red player 2 role is to cover the other defender. Whenever either red player gets in possession, the other red must find space so as to create a passing option.

Set up with 2 cones as shown with 2 players at each end and 1 ball.

Player with the ball passes the ball across and then quickly closes their pass down. Once they get close they take a defensive stance and move backwards as the player on the ball dribbles forward.

Once they get halfway the player defending quickly retreats and then receives the pass before changing roles.

Play 3 v 3 in the middle area with goalkeepers stationed in each of the goals. Balls are placed around the field so that as soon as a ball goes out, the closest ball is played in.

As soon as a player receives the ball from the goalkeeper or an outfield teammate, he should attempt a shot on goal. The defending team must attempt to pressure the ball carrier and closely mark all other attacking players.

Objective: To defend as a full back in a 1 v 1 situation

Detail:

• This practice uses only 4 players (2 full backs 1 winger 1 GK).
• Use half a pitch down either side.
• Serving full back serves the ball from the half way line into the winger.
• Defensive full back starts 10 yards outside the 18 yard box.
• Serving full back passes ball into wide player, and as ball travels defending full back pressurises the ball.

• Close down wide player quickly cutting off the line preventing wide player getting passed into coned area.
• Slow down within 2-3 yards to prevent wide player getting past, but close enough to prevent building up speed.
• Jockey and lead with nearest foot if ball can be won.