Week 67 Semi Opposed Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

In this semi-opposed finishing practice, the attacking team sets up in a diamond shape just outside the penalty area. The deepest player in the diamond, positioned closest to the goal, will drop deeper to receive a pass from the highest player in the diamond. From here, they will play a quick 1-2 combination with either of the side players.

During the initial phase, a defender applies pressure to the central forward, but once the 1-2 is played, the defender drops off, allowing the striker to receive the ball unopposed and finish towards goal.

This drill focuses on combination play, timing of runs, and finishing with composure under semi-opposed conditions.

Coaching Notes:

• Timing of the Pass: Encourage the deepest player to time their drop effectively to receive the ball in a good position. The pass from the highest player should be firm and accurate, allowing for quick combination play.

• 1-2 Combination: Players must focus on quick and sharp passing during the 1-2. Emphasize the importance of making precise passes and intelligent movement, especially from the player receiving the ball, who must make a forward run towards goal.

• Pressure and Transition: The defender should put pressure on the forward during the initial phase but drop off quickly once the 1-2 is executed. Remind the striker to stay focused and be ready to finish quickly once they receive the ball unopposed.

• Finishing with Composure: Once the defender drops off, the striker should take advantage of the unopposed opportunity to finish with composure. Encourage them to keep their shots low and aim for the far corners of the goal.

Progression 1: Add a Deflection:

Introduce a deflection element where a defender can make an attempt to block or deflect the 1-2 pass. This will force the striker to adapt their finishing technique and become more flexible in their approach.

Focus: This progression helps improve decision-making when the attack is not perfectly executed and simulates real match situations where defenders can still disrupt play.

Progression 2: One-Touch Finishing:

To increase the difficulty, require the striker to take a one-touch finish after receiving the ball back from the 1-2 combination. This progression will force the striker to focus on clean ball control and quicker decision-making in tight situations.

Focus: This will simulate real match conditions where attackers must finish quickly under pressure with minimal time on the ball.