Chelsea 1v1 ATK & Transition

Instructions/Setup:

Two goals and a goalkeeper are positioned to the north and west, creating a square-shaped field. Play starts with a 1v1 attacking situation, where the attacker’s objective is to beat the defender and score into the main goal. The defender’s job is to deny the attacking player a clear path to goal, working to win the ball back before the attacker can get a shot off. If the defender regains possession, they immediately switch roles and attempt to score into the mini-goal.

After every phase, the roles switch, and the attacker transitions to defend against a new opponent from the opposite team. This encourages players to quickly adapt from attacking to defending, maintaining high intensity throughout the drill and improving both offensive and defensive decision-making.

Coaching Notes:

• Attacking Focus: The attacker should focus on quick, direct movements to get past the defender and create a goal-scoring opportunity. Use fakes, changes of direction, and pace to beat the defender.

• Defending Focus: The defender should stay compact and control the attacker’s space by positioning themselves between the attacker and the goal. Focus on timing the tackle or interception to win the ball cleanly.

• Transition Speed: When the attacker transitions to defense, they must do so quickly and with purpose. Transitioning between attacking and defending without hesitation keeps the drill dynamic and helps improve fitness and decision-making.

• Mini Goal Awareness: If the defender wins possession, they should look to immediately transition to attack and finish in the mini-goal, using their newfound possession to take advantage of the open space.

Progression 1: Add Time Limit on Attack:

Introduce a time limit for each attacking phase (e.g., 20 seconds). If the attacker does not score within the time frame, the defender is awarded possession, and they attempt to score in the mini-goal.

Focus: This progression adds urgency to the attacking play, forcing attackers to make quicker decisions and defenders to remain alert under pressure.