Week *3 1v1 Offensive & Defensive Skills

Instructions/Setup:

This high-tempo practice develops both offensive and defensive skills, while also giving goalkeepers a great workout. Players will work on individual skills to attack and defend in tight spaces, with an emphasis on quick decision-making, agility, and tactical awareness.

The practice is set up with two even groups of 4, 5, or 6 players, including goalkeepers. The playing area is 20 yards by 20 yards, with players engaging in 1v1 duels, switching roles between offense and defense throughout the drill.

Coaching Notes:

• Offensive Play: Encourage attackers to use quick feints, directional changes, and explosive movements to get past the defender. The goal is to create separation with minimal touches and maintain control of the ball while progressing toward goal.

• Defensive Play: Defenders should focus on positioning and using their body to close down the attacking player. Encourage them to maintain a balanced stance and not dive in too early, always keeping an eye on the ball and reading the attacker’s next move.

• Goalkeeping: Goalkeepers should stay active, moving quickly across their goal line in response to the ball and ready to react to shots from the attacker. They must focus on positioning and be prepared for quick saves during the 1v1 situations.

• Decision-Making: Both attackers and defenders need to make quick decisions in tight spaces, whether it’s when to challenge, when to retreat, or when to take on the opponent.

Progression 1: Introduce a Time Limit:

Set a time limit (e.g., 30 seconds) for each player to either score or defend successfully. After the time is up, the next player in line immediately takes over.

Focus: Fast decision-making and maintaining high intensity throughout the drill.