Week 21 Midfield Triangle Combinations

Instructions/Setup:

This technical passing practice takes place in a 20 by 25-yard area and focuses on developing one-touch combination play and movement through the midfield third. Players will form triangles with two central midfielders and a wide player to practice passing and movement. The objective is to improve passing accuracy, weight of passes, and one-touch combinations. Players will work on creating space, moving off the ball, and maintaining a high tempo while progressing the ball through the midfield. Dribbling will also be incorporated to keep the ball close when needed.

Coaching Notes:

• Increase ball speed – Focus on moving the ball quickly and accurately, using one-touch combinations to shift the defense and create space.

• Pass accuracy – Emphasize the importance of well-weighted and accurate passes, ensuring that each pass reaches the intended target without slowing down the play.

• Dribbling – Encourage players to keep the ball close while dribbling, maintaining control to drive forward when necessary while looking for the next passing option.

• Movement off the ball – Players should continuously move to create passing lanes and options, ensuring they are always an option for the player in possession.

Progression 1: Add Pressure

Introduce a passive defender to apply light pressure on the player receiving the ball, forcing them to think quicker and maintain ball control under pressure.

Focus: Develop quick thinking and decision-making under pressure, improving the ability to maintain possession while progressing through the midfield.

Progression 2: Increase Ball Circulation Speed

Reduce the time each player has on the ball, increasing the speed of passing and forcing quicker decisions. The ball should always be played to the next player’s feet or a space where they can easily control it.

Focus: Improve the tempo of play and enhance players' ability to execute faster, more accurate passes under tighter time constraints.