Vitesse Transition Breakout

Instructions/Setup:

This large-sided counter-attacking drill is designed to help a team develop its ability to transition quickly from deep positions. Play begins with a deep player (starting outside the opposition's defensive half) dribbling into the field and looking to play a forward pass to initiate a counter-attack. The attacking team is overloaded 4v2, giving them a numerical advantage to create a goal-scoring opportunity.

After the first phase of the attack concludes, whether through a goal or the ball going dead, a new phase starts in the opposite direction, allowing both teams to practice defending and attacking during transitions.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Transitions: Focus on the speed at which the deep player transitions the ball forward. The quicker the ball is played, the more effective the counter-attack will be, catching the opposition off balance.

• Numerical Overload: Emphasize the use of the overload (4v2) to create spaces and quick, decisive movements. Players should be encouraged to move the ball quickly and exploit any gaps in the defense.

• Finishing: When in the attacking phase, encourage players to get shots off quickly and make good decisions in front of goal, whether that's a pass, a cross, or a direct shot.

• Defensive Recovery: The defenders must focus on quickly recovering into the defensive half. The transition from attack to defense can often happen quickly in counter-attacking drills, so defenders must be alert and ready to handle the overload.

Progression 1: Add Defenders to the Build-Up:

To make the drill more challenging, add one or two additional defenders in the initial phase to delay the counter-attack and force the attacking team to be more patient and precise in their decision-making.

Focus: This progression focuses on how the attacking team deals with a more organized defensive structure and still looks to exploit the overload in transition.

Progression 2: Restrict the Time to Attack:

Limit the time the attacking team has to progress the ball and finish. This can be done by implementing a timer or a set number of passes. This restriction forces quicker decisions and helps develop the ability to score under pressure.

Focus: This progression emphasizes fast decision-making, reducing the time to set up and finish attacks.