*Dortmund Fitness & Conditioning

Instructions/Setup:

This is a competitive 1v1 + shooting reaction drill that sharpens players' speed, decision-making, and finishing ability.

The practice begins when the coach calls out two cone colours. Two players must sprint to the first cone, then the second, before racing toward a centrally placed ball just ahead of the cones.

The first player to reach the ball initiates a 1v1 with the goalkeeper, aiming to score quickly. Once the 1v1 concludes, the coach immediately serves a ball to the second player, who must attempt a longer-range shot from deeper, simulating a follow-up opportunity under fatigue or delayed arrival.

This drill promotes sharp reactions, sprinting under pressure, and different types of finishing scenarios.

Coaching Notes:

• Acceleration Mechanics: Encourage explosive sprints with good body posture; technique matters in these high-intensity races.

• 1v1 Decision-Making: The first player must make quick choices—whether to dribble, shoot early, or round the keeper—based on the keeper’s positioning.

• Second Player Focus: Stress composure and technique on the follow-up shot, especially when tired or under mental pressure after just missing the race.

Progression 1: Serve Second Ball as a Half-Volley or Aerial Delivery:

Instead of a grounded pass, the coach serves the second ball as a lofted delivery that must be struck on the half-volley or first-time.

Focus: Challenges the second player’s technique and timing, promoting more advanced striking skills under pressure.