Benfica Ball Mastery

Instructions/Setup:

This mastery drill allows wide players to practice their crossing technique into two different zones in the box.

The drill starts with three wide players, each positioned on different sides of the field. The wide players will engage in a variety of combinations, such as overlaps, underlaps, and third-man runs, before delivering crosses into two target zones within the box.

The two target areas are:

Angled Mini Goal – Positioned near the penalty spot, replicating a cut-back cross.

6-Yard Mini Goal – Positioned on the six-yard line, replicating a flashed cross across the face of goal.

The wide players will rotate through these movements and focus on timing, accuracy, and the variety of crosses to be delivered into the appropriate target zones.

Coaching Notes:

• Crossing Technique: Emphasize the importance of delivering accurate crosses to the right zones, focusing on both pace and placement. Players should strike the ball cleanly to ensure consistency in their crosses.

• Movement for Overlaps & Underlaps: Wide players should recognize when to execute an overlap (around the player) or underlap (inside the player) to create space and open up crossing angles.

• Third-Man Run: The third-man runner should time their run into the box to be a target for the cross, ensuring they arrive just as the ball is delivered.

• Timing & Positioning: Ensure wide players understand the importance of timing their runs and positioning themselves to be in the best spot for receiving or delivering a cross.

Progression 1: Add Pressure on the Crossers:

Introduce a defender or two to press the wide players as they prepare to cross. This will simulate pressure from opposition defenders and challenge the wide players to deliver the cross under pressure.

Focus: This progression helps develop crossing under pressure and encourages players to be more aware of opposition movement as they deliver balls into the box.

Progression 2: Introduce a Finishing Element:

Introduce one or two attackers in the box to finish the crosses. This will encourage the wide players to focus on the quality of their delivery and the timing of their runs into the box.

Focus: This progression focuses on the connection between the wide players' crosses and the attackers' movement in the box, improving both crossing accuracy and finishing technique.