Benfica Warm Up & SAQ

Instructions/Setup:

This SAQ and technical warm-up combines speed, agility, and finishing. Players must complete a pre-defined movement route through a series of poles or markers as quickly as possible. As they exit the final pole, they receive a pass from a teammate and attempt to score with a first-time finish.

Immediately after their shot, the attacker switches roles with the passer, who now becomes the next runner. The drill continues in relay format. The first team to score a pre-determined number of goals is declared the winner, encouraging both speed and finishing quality.

Coaching Notes:

• Explosive Movement: Encourage quick footwork and sharp changes of direction around the poles to simulate in-game agility requirements.

• Timing & Accuracy: Focus on the timing of the pass and the body shape of the attacker when receiving the ball for a first-time finish.

• Quality of Finish: Players should remain composed under pressure and aim for accurate, placed finishes over power.

• Communication: Players must communicate to time passes correctly and maintain the rhythm of the practice.

• Competitive Edge: Remind players that the speed element should never come at the cost of poor technical execution.

Progression 1: Add a 1v1 After the Shot:

After the first-time shot, the attacker must immediately turn and defend in a short 1v1 duel against the next attacking runner.

Focus: Improves recovery speed, transition awareness, and defensive agility.