Liverpool Wide Overloads

Instructions/Setup:

This practice begins with a 2v1 overload in the wide areas, where a full-back and winger combine to progress the ball. The focus is on building quick, dynamic combinations on the flanks to break down defensive pressure and create attacking opportunities. Players need to work together to shift the opposition and make the most of the overload in the wide space.

Once the wide progression is successful, two attacking players make runs into the box, where they will face off against two defending players in a 2v2 scenario. The attacking players aim to finish from a cross delivered into the penalty area. Timing of runs, communication, and accurate delivery are crucial to completing the attack.

Coaching Notes:

• Wide Combinations: Focus on the quick interplay between the full-back and winger. They should aim to move the ball quickly, utilizing the overload to create space for forward progression.

• Crossing Timing: Encourage the winger to deliver early crosses when possible, but also to wait for the attacking players to get into position. Timing of the delivery should align with the attacking runs into the box.

• Attacking Runs: Players making runs into the box should focus on timing their movements to attack the space created by the cross. They must aim for varied runs to create confusion for the defenders.

• Defensive Awareness: Defenders must track attackers and communicate to prevent easy goals. They should focus on staying compact while defending in a 2v2 scenario.

Progression 1: Add a Third Defender:

Introduce a third defender to the 2v2 scenario, making it a 3v2 for the defending team. This increases the challenge for the attacking players and allows defenders to practice managing overloads.

Focus: Enhances defensive positioning and communication under pressure.

Progression 2: Finish with Different Techniques:

Limit finishing to one specific technique, such as heading, volleys, or finishing with the weaker foot, to encourage technical development in various aspects of attacking play.

Focus: Develops different finishing techniques and improves players' adaptability in the final third.