Lazio Overloaded Possession

Instructions/Setup:

This possession-based practice encourages players to create overloads in specific areas of the pitch. The setup involves dividing the field into six grids, where the defending team can have a maximum of one player per grid, while the attacking team can have up to three players in each grid. The attacking team must focus on utilizing their numerical advantage to create space and move the ball effectively across the grid system.

The attacking team’s objective is to move the ball into at least five of the six grids before attempting to score in any of the mini-goals. If the defending team wins possession, they can immediately counter-attack and score into any of the mini-goals. This encourages quick transitions and rewards the defending team for regaining possession.

Coaching Notes:

• Creating Overloads: The attacking team should focus on positioning to create numerical advantages in each grid. Players should move intelligently to fill space and overload areas to break down the defensive structure, making it easier to progress the ball forward.

• Quick Transitions: Emphasize the need for quick and decisive transitions between the grids. Players must move the ball rapidly to exploit the overloads and avoid allowing the defending team to reorganize. The attacking team should look for quick passes and movements to retain possession.

• Defensive Awareness: The defending team should focus on compact positioning and closing down passing lanes. Despite being outnumbered in each grid, defenders must remain disciplined, work as a unit, and anticipate passes to disrupt the attacking flow.

• Spacing and Timing: Encourage attacking players to be aware of their positioning relative to their teammates. Timing the runs and passes is crucial for breaking the defensive lines and finding space in the grids. Players should avoid overcrowding any one grid and spread out to increase the attacking options.

Progression 1: Add a Time Limit:

Introduce a time limit (e.g., 1 minute) for the attacking team to move the ball into five grids before attempting to score. This forces the attacking players to move the ball quickly and makes the exercise more game-like in terms of pace and urgency.

Focus: This progression increases the intensity of the drill, challenging the attacking team to work under pressure, make quicker decisions, and accelerate the pace of play.