Benfica Counter & Recover

Instructions/Setup:

This drill focuses on quick attacking transitions and defending against a counter-attack. Play starts with a pass from the coach into any of the three attacking players positioned 40-50 yards from the goal line. The attacking players must then attack the main goal as quickly as possible, with three defenders behind them who are tasked with recovering and stopping the attack.

The recovery defenders start 2 meters behind the attacking players and face away from the coach at the start. This positioning forces the defenders to react quickly to the counter-attack, simulating a real game situation where defenders must recover and apply pressure to prevent a goal.

Coaching Notes:

• Speed of Attack: Emphasize the importance of quick, direct attacking towards the goal, making sure the attackers take advantage of the space before defenders can recover.

• Decision Making: Attackers should make quick decisions, whether to take on a defender, play a through ball, or take a shot on goal.

• Defender Recovery: Recovery defenders should focus on their reaction time and positioning as they quickly transition from defense to attack. They need to close down space and apply pressure to disrupt the attackers' rhythm.

• Communication: Both attackers and defenders should communicate throughout the drill. Attackers should talk about their intentions, and defenders should communicate when they are recovering and covering space.

Progression 1: Add a Neutral Player:

Introduce a neutral player who can support the attack. This neutral player can pass or receive the ball to help create overloads for the attacking team, making the defenders' job harder and forcing quicker recovery decisions.

Focus: This progression enhances attacking play and allows the attackers to utilize the extra player for more dynamic and varied attacks.

Progression 2: Limit Attacker Touches:

Limit the number of touches the attacking players can take (e.g., one or two touches maximum). This forces the attackers to play quicker and under more pressure, simulating the need to make fast decisions in a real counter-attack situation.

Focus: This progression develops the attackers' ability to make quick, accurate decisions while under pressure, and reinforces the need for fast transitions in attack.