Spain Breaking Lines

Instructions/Setup:

This possession transfer drill focuses on improving players’ ability to operate between lines and find pockets of space to receive the ball. The practice involves three teams of five players each. 

The team in possession must make a minimum of five passes before attempting to switch the play. The key rule is that possession must go through one of the three players located along the central line before switching, ensuring they pass behind the two defending players who are screening the central line. This encourages players to move intelligently between the lines to maintain possession and facilitate attacking play.

Coaching Notes:

• Movement Between Lines: Emphasize the importance of players moving between the lines to create passing options. Players should constantly be scanning the field and making runs into space to receive the ball, keeping the flow of possession smooth and consistent.

• Quick Decision Making: Encourage quick, intelligent decisions when switching the play. Players should focus on receiving the ball in open space and looking to progress it with minimal touches, helping to maintain tempo and fluidity.

• Central Line Usage: Highlight the importance of using the central line effectively. The central players must stay aware of the defensive pressure and offer themselves as an option to receive the ball behind the screening defenders, making sure they create passing lanes that help the team progress.

• Defensive Screening Awareness: Train the defenders to remain disciplined in screening the central line, preventing easy passes into the central players. Defenders should communicate and adjust their positioning based on the movement of the attacking players and the ball.

Progression 1: Increase the Passing Requirements:

Increase the number of passes the team in possession must complete before switching the play (e.g., 7 or 10 passes). This forces players to be more patient, keeping possession for longer periods and requiring more movement and support to maintain fluidity in the attack.

Focus: Helps develop patience in possession, encouraging players to work together and create additional space before attempting the switch.