2v2 Pressing | Shut Down the Attack with Press & Cover

Overview

• Age group: U12 and up
• Field size: 35m x 20m (use a grid)
• Players: 6 (rotate through 2v2, or run several groups at once)
• Gear: balls, marker cones

Objectives

• Get the basics of press & cover down
• Teach players to read the next pass and defend on the front foot
• Sharpen how they press the player on the ball
• Speed up the switch between attack and defense (transition)
• Build a real defensive mindset that takes away the opponent’s options

Setup

In this drill, players go 2v2 in a small grid and learn how pressing and covering work together on defense.

1） Set two attackers and two defenders on opposite sides of the grid.

2） The attackers keep the ball and move forward with dribbles or passes out wide.

3） One defender pressures the player on the ball hard, while the other tucks in front of the pass the ball carrier wants to make (the cover position).

4） The moment the defenders win the ball, attack and defense swap on the spot. The new defenders press right away.

5） Rotate groups every few minutes so everyone gets reps at both pressing and covering.