Week 12 Technical Combinations

Instructions/Setup

This technical practice focuses on 1-2 combinations, with an emphasis on playing short passes to prepare for the longer penetration pass. Set up a 20 by 20-yard area with 4 players: two attacking players and two defenders. The objective is to build quick combinations with short passes to create opportunities for a long, penetrating pass.

Start with one attacking player receiving the ball from a teammate. This player will then use a 1-2 combination (also known as a wall pass) to pass the ball back to the initial player and receive it again while moving forward. After completing the combination, the player should then make a penetrating pass toward the next attacking player or into the space.

The defenders should work on closing down space and tracking runs, challenging the attackers to make quick and precise passes. The attacking team’s goal is to maintain possession while progressing the ball forward, ultimately preparing for the longer penetration pass.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick 1-2 combinations – Encourage players to focus on quick, short passes. The player performing the return pass should use minimal touches to ensure the ball is moving quickly and efficiently.

• Body positioning – Players should use their body to protect the ball and create space for their teammate to make the return pass. Proper positioning allows for smoother 1-2 exchanges and better control.

• Timing of runs – The player receiving the ball must time their run well, getting into a good position to return the ball after the first pass. They should be ready to receive and quickly play it back to maintain the flow.

• Penetrating pass focus – Once the combination is completed, emphasize the importance of making a strong and accurate long pass to penetrate the defensive line or into space. This sets up the next phase of the attack.

Progression 1: Add Pressure

Introduce a defender into the drill to apply pressure on the attacking players. The defender will try to intercept the ball or challenge the players making the 1-2 combinations. This forces the attacking players to perform their passes more precisely and under pressure.

Focus: Improve passing accuracy, decision-making, and the ability to execute 1-2 combinations under pressure.

Progression 2: Increase the Distance

Increase the distance between players or allow the attacking players to work across a larger area. This forces the attacking players to focus more on their passing range, from short, quick combinations to longer passes as they progress down the field.

Focus: Develop the players’ ability to transition from short 1-2 combinations into longer, penetrating passes, simulating game situations.