Dortmund Build Up via Zones

Instructions/Setup:

This drill is designed to help teams progress the ball from the defensive third to the halfway line while adhering to specific build-up principles. The team in possession must advance the ball into any of the three mini-goals placed along the halfway line. To add complexity and focus, the team must play directly through a pre-selected zone, simulating a key area of the pitch where a defensive midfielder or central player would typically operate. This zone can be adjusted depending on which aspect of the build-up play you want to target for improvement.

The purpose of this exercise is to encourage players to play out from the back effectively, utilizing quick passes, off-the-ball movement, and decision-making. The team must maintain possession while navigating through the zone under pressure, developing their ability to control the game from deeper areas and progress through critical zones on the pitch.

Coaching Notes:

• Controlled Build-Up Play: Encourage short, sharp passes and quick ball circulation as players move the ball through the designated zone and towards the mini-goals.

• Zone Awareness: Players should be aware of their surroundings when entering the designated zone, making sure to utilize this space effectively while under pressure from defenders.

• Player Movement and Support: Focus on players making smart supporting runs into space after passing, especially around the key zone, to help maintain possession and create goal-scoring opportunities.

• Passing Under Pressure: Work on passing with accuracy and pace in tight spaces to progress through the zone and move the ball quickly toward the mini-goals.

Progression 1: Defensive Pressure in the Zone:

Add a defender inside the critical zone to apply pressure to the team in possession, forcing them to make quicker decisions and better use of space.

Focus: Develops the ability to maintain possession and play through a zone under pressure, simulating match-like conditions.

Progression 2: Increase Passing Complexity:

Limit the team in possession to using a minimum number of passes before they can enter the zone. This increases the tempo and forces players to focus on efficient ball movement.

Focus: Encourages faster decision-making and quicker ball circulation, replicating the need for fast build-up in a game scenario.