Timed Runs Into the Box | Build Attacking Accuracy and Sharp Decisions

Overview

• Built for midfielders and both wide players, U13 and up
• Great for players learning to create an overload inside the box
• Perfect for teams that build up and then break forward fast
• Ideal for players who want to attack crosses from wide and finish

Objectives

• Nail the timing of the midfielder’s run into the box
• Get multiple players bursting forward together, at full speed, off a pass from wide
• Sharpen the central player’s split-second reads (receive, then pick who to play)
• Learn how to build an overload in the box and create more shooting chances
• Feel just how much off-the-ball movement matters

Setup

This drill teaches quick runs into the box with several players supporting at the same time. Start from a deep 4+2 shape with a ball carrier through the middle.

1）The team in possession plays a pass into the central player

2）The central player slides it wide to a wide player

3）On that same pass, the midfielder and the opposite winger both burst forward

4）The wide player picks out the runners in the box with a cross or a cutback

5）The players in the box go for the finish