Bayern Counter with Recoveries

Instructions/Setup:

Play begins with a pass from one of the 3 attacking players, who are positioned 15 yards outside the penalty area, into the 4th attacking player positioned on the edge of the penalty area. As soon as the initial pass is made, a 4v1 scenario is created, with 3 recovering defenders attempting to prevent a counter-attack and make it a 4v4 situation.

The 3 defenders start 3 yards behind the attacking players and must work to recover quickly, covering key passing lanes and denying the attacking team the opportunity to finish. The attacking team looks to break the defensive lines and exploit the space, while the defenders are tasked with closing down the attacking players and creating numerical equality as quickly as possible.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Transition to Counter-Attack: The attacking team should immediately look to take advantage of the space and try to create an opportunity on goal. Emphasize the need for quick, decisive passing and movement to break the defensive line before the defenders can recover.

• Defensive Recovery: The 3 defenders must quickly recover ground and communicate with each other to make it a 4v4 scenario. Their goal is to deny space to the attacking players and prevent them from getting a shot on goal. Focus on positioning, anticipation, and timing of recovery runs.

• Speed and Timing of the Pass: The initial pass into the attacking player on the edge of the penalty area should be weighted properly, giving the receiving player the best chance to control the ball and progress forward. Timing is crucial to ensure the defenders can't get in front of the pass.

• Defender Positioning: Defenders should aim to position themselves in a way that forces the attacking team into tighter areas, using their numbers to apply pressure. The recovering defenders must quickly close the gaps and work to create an overload, taking advantage of the numerical advantage once the ball is played to them.

• Finishing Under Pressure: The attacking players must be composed in front of goal, focusing on finishing quickly and accurately under pressure from the defenders.

Progression 1: 4v2 Attack with 3 Recovering Defenders:

Start with 2 defenders positioned deeper in the defensive zone, creating a 4v2 attack for the attacking team. As the attacking team attempts to break forward, the 3 other defenders start recovering from a deeper position to make it a 4v5 scenario.

Focus: Enhances attacking team’s ability to break down a defense with numerical superiority initially, while improving the defending team’s ability to recover and regain control under pressure.