Villareal Passing Game Warm-Up

Instructions / Setup:

This is a fast-paced, fun warm-up game that promotes awareness, transition speed, and passing accuracy. Two teams compete, with one team starting as defenders, positioned in front of two mini goals. The attacking team looks to pass into either of the mini goals to score while the defenders attempt to block the ball using only their feet or legs — no diving or hands allowed.

As soon as a successful pass is made into one of the goals, the passer must immediately sprint to become a defender, and the previous defender quickly joins their team and prepares to receive the next ball. This creates a continuous cycle of attacking and defending roles, sharpening reactions and transition focus.

Coaching Notes:

• Encourage sharp, snappy passes into mini goals – Players must strike the ball with intent and accuracy while disguising direction and staying composed under pressure.

• Demand high communication and quick trigger scanning – Ensure players alert teammates of their movements, check passing lanes early, and decide where to play before receiving.

• Reinforce intensity and reaction speed in transition moments – After scoring or losing the ball, players must immediately switch roles with urgency and sprint to defend.

• Ensure defenders stay balanced and mobile when blocking – Defenders should use lateral footwork, keep their knees bent, and react instinctively to close down goal angles quickly.

Progression 1: Add a 5-Second Scoring Limit

Attacking team must attempt to score within 5 seconds of receiving the ball, increasing pace and forcing quick decisions under pressure.

Focus: Trains fast decision-making and forces players to create quick solutions in tight time frames with added urgency and increased mental sharpness.