Milan Continuous Countering

Instructions/Setup:

Play starts with two recovering defenders positioned at the top and bottom of the grid, with one of them in possession of the ball. The defender with the ball initiates play by passing into one of the three attacking players positioned centrally.

Upon receiving the ball, the attacking team must break forward quickly and take advantage of the initial 3v1 overload. As the counter develops, the two recovering defenders sprint back to support, aiming to restore balance and turn the situation into a 3v3 before the attackers can score.

Coaching Notes:

• Fast Counter Attacks: Encourage the attacking players to break forward at speed and make early decisions to exploit the overload before the defenders recover.

• Delaying Defenders: The initial lone defender should focus on delaying the attack to give teammates time to recover, using smart positioning and body shape.

• Timing of Recovery Runs: Defenders must react quickly and recover at full speed to close down space and restore defensive balance.

• Decision Making in Overload: Attacking players should recognize when to pass, dribble, or shoot, making the most of their numerical advantage before it becomes a 3v3.

Progression 1: Time Limit to Score:

Set a time constraint of 6–8 seconds for the attacking team to score after receiving the ball to increase pressure and decision speed.

Focus: Promotes high-tempo transitions and rapid decision-making under time pressure, replicating match intensity.

Progression 2: Alternate Numbers:

Introduce variations like 2v1, 3v2, or 4v2 to challenge players with different overload dynamics and recovery demands in transition.

Focus: Develops adaptability and sharpens both attacking efficiency and defensive organization across multiple game scenarios.