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Istanbul Defending Crosses 1v1
ADDED TO FAVOURITES
Practice Breakdown:
Number of Players: 8 | Pitch size: 40x40
This drill focuses on improving individual defensive skills for full backs in wide defensive areas, particularly when defending crosses. The full back will face a winger in a 1v1 situation positioned at the edge side of the penalty box. The winger’s objective is to use skill, speed, and movement to create separation from the defender and deliver an effective cross into the box. Inside the box, two mini goals are positioned where attackers would typically arrive, giving the winger a clear target to aim for.
The full back must work on positioning, timing, and decision-making to prevent the winger from getting a quality cross. This drill encourages defenders to maintain close marking and anticipate the winger’s actions, while also building confidence in dealing with crossing situations under pressure.
• Emphasize Proper Defensive Body Positioning and Angling – The defender must stay balanced and use body shape to force the winger away from dangerous crossing positions.
• Encourage Close Marking and Timing of Tackles – The full back should maintain tight marking without diving in too early, focusing on winning the ball cleanly or forcing a poor cross.
• Promote Anticipation of the Winger’s Movement and Cross Timing – Reading the winger’s intentions allows the defender to be proactive in blocking or intercepting crosses.
• Stress Recovery Speed and Aggression in 1v1 Defensive Duels – If beaten, the defender needs to recover quickly and apply pressure to disrupt the winger’s crossing rhythm.
Increase the Winger’s Options by Adding an Additional Attacker in the Box
Add a second attacker making runs into the box alongside the winger’s cross to increase complexity and challenge the defender’s decision-making and positioning.
Focus: Enhances defender’s ability to track multiple attacking threats and adapt to more dynamic crossing situations.