Barcelona Rondo to Attack

Instructions/Setup:

The drill begins with a 4v2 rondo in the center of the pitch, with 3 attackers positioned on mannequins in the Left Wing (LW), Centre Forward (CF), and Right Wing (RW) positions. The team in possession (4 players) must complete a set number of passes (e.g., 4-6) before playing a forward ball to combine with the attackers.

Once the ball is played forward, the 3 attackers (LW, CF, RW) attempt to score in an unopposed scenario. The focus is on the attackers timing their movements to receive the ball in space and finishing efficiently once they receive possession.

Coaching Notes:

• Rondo Passing Focus: Encourage quick, sharp passing in the rondo to move the defenders out of position and create space for the forwards. Players must focus on maintaining possession and recognizing when the pass should be played forward.

• Forward Movement: Attackers (LW, CF, RW) must time their runs to receive the ball in space, ensuring they’re unopposed when the pass arrives. Encourage dynamic movement and anticipation of the forward pass.

• Combination Play: Once the ball is played forward, attackers should combine with the ball carrier to break down the defense. Emphasize quick, one- or two-touch play to maintain momentum and unbalance the defense.

• Finishing: The attackers should focus on finishing with composure, using different types of shots (e.g., driven, placed) based on the situation, and ensuring they are calm in front of goal.

Progression 1: Introduce a Pressing Defender:

After the initial pass forward, introduce one defender to apply light pressure on the attackers, forcing them to make quicker decisions under pressure.

Focus: Develops the attackers' ability to finish under pressure and make fast decisions when combining with teammates.

Progression 2: Limit Touches for the Attackers:

Limit the number of touches the attackers can take when receiving the ball (e.g., no more than two touches). This forces quicker decision-making and improves the speed of play.

Focus: Encourages attackers to play faster, making quicker passes and decisions while under pressure to execute combination play and finish efficiently.