Week 69 Attacking 1v1 to Finish

Instructions/Setup:

This 1v1 practice is set up on half a pitch, using the width of the 18-yard box. A central zone is marked out with two small gates positioned around 10–15 yards outside the box, one on each side. The coach starts each repetition by playing a pass into a single attacker, who is immediately pressed by a defender as they enter the central zone.

The attacker’s objective is to beat the defender and drive through either of the two gates. If successful, the practice becomes unopposed, and the attacker continues forward to take a free shot on goal. Defenders aim to delay or dispossess without fouling.

Coaching Notes:

• Positive First Touch: Attackers should focus on receiving the ball in a way that allows them to immediately face forward and assess the defender’s positioning.

• 1v1 Execution: Encourage attackers to use feints, changes of pace, and sharp direction shifts to create space and beat the defender cleanly.

• Defensive Body Shape: Defenders must stay low and balanced, guiding attackers away from goal and toward less dangerous areas.

• Composed Finishing: Once through the gate, attackers should settle and execute controlled, accurate finishes when unopposed.

Progression 1: Add Time Limit for Gate Entry

Introduce a time constraint (e.g., 6–8 seconds) for the attacker to break through a gate, increasing urgency and intensity of the duel.

Focus: Encourages quicker decision-making, more explosive attacking play, and sharper defensive reactions.

Progression 2: Make One Gate Inactive

Before each rep, the coach calls out one gate that is closed. The attacker must now beat the defender and score through the active gate only.

Focus: Forces players to scan and adapt, improving awareness, tactical flexibility, and directional control under pressure.