Liverpool Double 1v1 into 2v2

Instructions/Setup:

Play starts with 4 players engaging in two 1v1 matchups on half of the pitch. Each team must complete their respective 1v1 challenges, with the players involved in those matchups then transitioning to form teams for a 2v2 on the full pitch.

To decide which team begins with possession, the coach can serve the ball to the team that completed their 1v1s the quickest. This encourages urgency and decision-making, as players must transition rapidly from individual duels to a collective team effort.

Coaching Notes:

• Winning the 1v1: Players should focus on using a variety of techniques to beat their defender, whether through quick dribbles, fakes, or changes in pace. Emphasize the importance of finishing or creating space to progress into the 2v2.

• Quick Transition to 2v2: After completing the 1v1, players must quickly adjust their mindset from individual play to team collaboration. Encourage communication, positioning, and off-the-ball movement in the 2v2 to ensure they create chances and defend effectively.

• Creating Space in the 2v2: Attackers should focus on stretching the field and working together to exploit gaps in the defense. Encourage the use of passes and movement off the ball to create opportunities for 1v1 situations in the final third.

• Defensive Shape in the 2v2: Defenders should stay compact and work together to cover space, making it harder for the attackers to break through. Emphasize the importance of communication and tracking the attacking players' movements.

Progression 1: Add a Time Limit for 1v1s

Introduce a time limit for each 1v1 battle (e.g., 10 seconds) to increase the intensity of the drill. This forces players to be more decisive in their individual battles, promoting quicker decisions and faster transitions to the 2v2 phase.

Focus: Sharpening players' urgency in 1v1 situations, encouraging rapid attacking moves and quicker defensive reactions under time pressure.