Week 13 Diamond Combos to Finish

Instructions/Setup:

This technical pattern of play takes place in a 20 by 25-yard area and focuses on developing combinations when set up in a diamond formation. The practice begins with a player positioned at each point of the diamond: one at the top, two in the central positions, and one at the bottom. The objective is for players to combine through short, quick passes to break down the defense and create finishing opportunities.

The player at the top of the diamond plays the ball to one of the central players, who then looks to combine with the other central player before playing a pass to the bottom of the diamond. The final player in the diamond is tasked with finishing the ball after receiving the pass. The sequence continues with players rotating positions, ensuring that everyone gets a chance to work in each role.

Coaching Notes:

• Passing accuracy and weight – Ensure that passes are delivered with the correct weight, allowing teammates to move quickly onto the next phase of play. The pace of the pass should be fast enough to maintain momentum, but not so fast that it becomes difficult to control.

• Quick decision-making – Players should make quick decisions when receiving the ball. They need to anticipate their next pass and move into position to support the ball carrier. Encourage players to scan before receiving the ball to know where their next pass will go.

• One-two combinations – Focus on developing one-two combinations between the central players and with the player at the bottom of the diamond. This will help the team break through opposition lines quickly and create space in the final third.

• Movement to create angles – Players should focus on creating angles for each other, especially the central players. Encourage the players at the top and bottom of the diamond to make runs that will drag defenders out of position, creating space for the central players to receive and pass.

• Finishing under pressure – The player at the bottom of the diamond should focus on finishing with composure when they receive the ball. They should aim to strike the ball cleanly and accurately, under the pressure of defenders closing in.

Progression 1: Add Defenders

Introduce one or two defenders to challenge the attacking team. The defending players will try to intercept passes or block shooting lanes, forcing the attacking players to think quicker and make more precise decisions under pressure. The attackers must still aim to break through with their combinations and create a finishing opportunity.

Focus: Improve the ability to break down a defensive block using short, quick passes while maintaining composure in tight spaces.

Progression 2: Add a Goalkeeper

Place a goalkeeper in the goal and add a scoring objective to the drill. The central players will now need to focus not only on combining to break the defense but also on making precise passes to set up the finishing player for a shot on goal. The attacking team must use their combination play to create high-quality chances and finish with accuracy.

Focus: Develop the ability to execute combination play under match-like conditions and improve the players’ finishing ability in a realistic, game-related scenario.