Argentina Cutback SSG

Instructions/Setup:

This small-sided game is played with 4v4 teams and 4 neutral players positioned at the 4 corners of the grid, known as the 'cutback' zones. The objective is to score 1 goal to win the game. After each goal, the losing team will switch with the neutral players, ensuring that both teams get equal opportunities in different roles.

The neutral players are restricted to 1 touch, and the team in possession is encouraged to use them to create goal-scoring chances through quick cutbacks, crosses, or switching the play. The attacking team should aim to exploit the neutral zones to stretch the defense, pull defenders out of position, and open up space for a final delivery into the box. The defenders will need to be aware of their positioning and try to prevent passes into the neutral zones by maintaining close coverage on their opponents.

Coaching Notes:

• Neutral Player Use: Encourage the team in possession to quickly switch the play to the neutral zones to unbalance the defense and create overloads in wide areas. The neutral players should be used to create wide angles and allow for an easier ball progression.

• Cutback Awareness: Attackers need to time their runs into the box to coincide with the pass being played into the cutback zones. This will give them a chance to attack the goal from an unmarked position.

• Defensive Positioning: Defenders should work to deny passes into the cutback zones and stay alert to the runners from the central areas. They need to make sure to track attackers running into the box and deny them a clean shot.

• Speed of Play: Emphasize quick, clean passing to switch the play and create overloads in the wide areas. The attacking team should look to exploit the space in the cutback zones by moving the ball quickly and efficiently.

Progression 1: Limit Attacking Team’s Touches:

Limit the attacking team to two touches to increase the tempo of the game, improve decision-making under pressure, and force quick execution in the final third. This will also help players focus on creating quick attacking opportunities.