Lyon Rondo with Counter

Instructions/Setup:

In this drill, three teams of two take part in a 4v2 rondo, where the possession team must complete a minimum of six passes to earn a point. The defending duo's objective is to regain possession and immediately transition into a counter-attack. Once they win the ball, they should aim to score into the mini-goal that the possession team lost the ball from, creating a dynamic shift between attacking and defending.

The game encourages quick transitions, tactical awareness, and ball retention. The defending players are incentivized to press effectively, while the possession players are challenged to maintain control and create space for passing options. After successfully regaining possession and scoring in the counter-attack, the defending team swaps places with the players who were previously on the outside, keeping the drill fluid and continuously engaging.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Transitions: Emphasize the importance of quick transitions after regaining possession. Defenders should immediately look to attack once the ball is won, creating a 2v1 overload against the possession team.

• Ball Retention: Possession players should focus on making simple, quick passes and finding spaces for one-touch or two-touch play to meet the six-pass target.

• Pressing: The defending players must stay compact and look to force errors by closing down passing lanes, being patient in their attempts to win the ball back.

• Awareness and Communication: Players need to be aware of their surroundings at all times, with possession players needing to communicate to maintain the passing flow, while defenders coordinate to press effectively as a unit.

Progression 1: Limit Touches:

Limit the number of touches for the possession players (e.g., one or two touches max). This forces them to be more efficient in their passing and movement.

Focus: Enhances quick thinking, better touch control, and sharpness in passing decisions.