Set up a large square pitch with four small goals; one on each sideline.
Play 8v4 inside the square area.
The team of 4 defends. If they win the ball they can score in any of the goals for a point.
The team of 8 must retain possession of the ball. They can earn a point by completing 8 passes.
Encourage movement and rotation from the team in possession. The first pass after winning the ball back is especially important.
If either team is having too much success or too little success you can adjust the number of passes required for a point, adjust the team sizes, adjust the size of the area or limit the goals that can be scored in.
Coaching Points
Skill Development
Passing, receiving, movement, rotation, communication, combination play.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
2026 brings the biggest World Cup ever, revolutionary rule changes, and new tactical opportunities for coaches at every level. Here's what you need to know.
Possession without purpose is pointless. These drills combine ball retention with physical conditioning to create teams that dominate and outlast opponents.
Teams have just 6 seconds to exploit a turnover before defences reorganise. Learn how to train your players to attack with speed and purpose.