3 Small Sided Games to Try in Your Training Sessions

ARGENTINA CUTBACK SSG

Instructions/Set-Up

This small-sided game is played with 4v4 teams and 4 neutral players positioned at the 4 corners of the grid, known as the 'cutback' zones. The objective is to score 1 goal to win the game. After each goal, the losing team will switch with the neutral players, ensuring that both teams get equal opportunities in different roles.

The neutral players are restricted to 1 touch, and the team in possession is encouraged to use them to create goal-scoring chances through quick cutbacks, crosses, or switching the play. The attacking team should aim to exploit the neutral zones to stretch the defense, pull defenders out of position, and open up space for a final delivery into the box. The defenders will need to be aware of their positioning and try to prevent passes into the neutral zones by maintaining close coverage on their opponents.

BUDAPEST OVERLOADED SSG

Instructions/Set-Up

This overloaded small-sided game is played across two connected grids, each containing two attackers, two defenders and a goalkeeper. Play begins with the defending team building from the back, attempting to play forward under pressure from two pressing attackers. The objective is to break the press and find their two advanced teammates in the opposite grid, where they can progress the attack and attempt to score.

To support the build-up, one of the two attackers in the higher grid can drop into the deeper zone, creating a temporary overload to help play through the press. This movement encourages decision-making around when to drop, how to receive under pressure and how to connect play between zones. The practice replicates realistic build-up scenarios under pressure while promoting intelligent movement and positional awareness.

DONETSK MEDIUM SIZED GAME

Instructions/Set-Up

This small to medium-sized game encourages central play with 4 neutral players located around the outside of the playing area. The 4 neutral players are limited to 1 touch and must be used to either retain possession, progress play during the build-up, or create an attacking advantage in wide areas.

The team in possession can use the neutral players to maintain possession or transition the ball to key attacking areas. If a team scores after receiving a pass from one of the neutral players, they will be awarded with a bonus point. This rule encourages the central teams to actively engage with the 4 neutrals both during the build-up and attacking phases.

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