Week 71 Finishing Under Pressure

Instructions/Setup:

A striker receives a pass while positioned ahead of a recovering defender who starts 3 yards behind them. As the ball is played in, the attacker must take a positive first touch and drive toward goal to maintain their advantage and create a 1v1 opportunity with the goalkeeper. The defender applies immediate recovery pressure, forcing the attacker to protect the ball and make quick, decisive movements to finish.

Coaching Notes:

• First Touch Direction – Attackers must take their first touch forward and away from the defender to maximize space and retain the 1v1 advantage.

• Awareness of Pressure – Encourage players to scan before receiving to recognize the defender’s position and adjust their touch accordingly.

• Finishing Under Pressure – Emphasize calm, early decision-making in front of goal, aiming for quick, composed finishes before the defender can recover.

• Defender Recovery Intensity – Defenders should apply full-speed recovery pressure, pushing attackers to execute at match tempo.

Progression 1: Angle the Defender’s Starting Position

Have the defender start from a slight angle (left or right) to vary the attacker’s decision on touch direction and finishing side, creating different recovery angles and challenges.

Focus:

Improves the striker’s ability to read defensive pressure, adjust movement, and select the optimal route to goal.

Progression 2: Add a Second Attacker for a 2v1 Option

Introduce a supporting attacker on the opposite side to create the option of a pass or shot in the 1v1 situation, forcing the striker to make quicker passing vs shooting decisions under pressure.

Focus:

Encourages awareness, decision-making, and combination play while navigating live pressure and dynamic defensive scenarios.