Stockholm Line Breaking Finishing

Instructions / Setup:

In this unopposed finishing drill, players work on breaking defensive lines by passing between four mannequins set up to simulate a back four. A supporting striker makes a well-timed run beyond the mannequins to receive and finish in a 1v0 situation. The drill is designed to replicate attacking movements and decision-making when running in behind.

The passer alternates between three available passing gaps between the mannequins to vary the direction and angle of the final ball. This variation encourages different types of movement from the striker, who must read the pass, adjust their run, and finish with speed and precision. The drill helps sharpen timing, off-the-ball movement, and clinical finishing under minimal pressure.

Coaching Notes:

• Focus on the weight and accuracy of the pass – It should split the mannequins cleanly, arrive with proper pace, and guide the striker into a shooting stride.

• Encourage explosive movement from the striker – Sharp sprints, curved runs, and quick acceleration help break defensive lines and simulate match-relevant situations.

• Emphasise body shape before finishing – Strikers must open up, prepare the touch early, and use minimal steps before executing the shot on goal.

• Vary finishes based on angle – Depending on which gap is used, players should choose different techniques (inside foot, laces, across goal) to improve versatility and decision-making.

Progression 1: Allow strikers to start from different zones

Strikers can begin runs from varying starting positions (wider or deeper) to attack different passing angles. This creates more game-relevant movement patterns and tests their ability to adapt to different through balls.

Focus: Enhances timing, awareness of space, and ability to adjust body shape to shoot effectively from multiple positions.