Week 17 Striker Combinations & Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This practice is focused on developing finishing opportunities through quick combination play around the box. It is designed for teams using a 4-4-2 diamond formation, helping to establish basic movements between the two strikers and supporting midfielders. The players work on fluid passing, movement, and timing to create and finish goal-scoring chances inside the box.

Coaching Notes:

• Movement off the ball – Encourage strikers and supporting midfielders to make intelligent runs, offering passing options and creating space for quick combinations.

• Timing and link-up play – Focus on the timing of passes and runs to ensure smooth one-two combinations and accurate delivery into the final third.

• First-time finishing – Emphasize the importance of finishing quickly and efficiently when the opportunity arises, reducing the need for extra touches.

• Supporting the attack – Midfielders should focus on positioning themselves to support the strikers, making runs into the box for cutbacks and crosses.

Progression 1: Add Defenders

Introduce defenders into the drill to increase pressure, forcing attackers to make quicker decisions and work on breaking down defensive lines with combinations.

Focus: Improve combination play under pressure, focusing on quick passes and runs to break down defensive teams.

Progression 2: Limit Touches

Reduce the number of touches each player can take, encouraging faster play and quicker decision-making in the final third.

Focus: Speed up the combination play and improve the players’ ability to make quick passes and finish under pressure.