Breakout Into a Numbers-Up Edge | A Step-by-Step Overload Session

Overview

• Built for U12 through adult players
• For players who are learning when to play forward and how to use a numbers-up edge
• For teams who want to attack through passing patterns and combination play

Objectives

• Sharpen the read and the execution on forward passes
• Give players reps at finishing and breaking through with an extra man (3v2)
• Build a fast switch from defending to attacking (transition)
• Develop quick combinations in tight spaces

Setup

This session builds up in stages: it starts as a small 2v2 attack, and when the attackers succeed, a third player joins to make it a 3v2 overload.

1）Split the field lengthwise into two zones (Start Zone at the bottom, Attack Zone at the top)

2）In the Start Zone, two attackers go head-to-head with two defenders

3）The attacker on the ball beats their man inside the Start Zone and looks for a passing lane to play forward

4）Once a forward pass gets through, the receiver and the passer both push up into the Attack Zone

5）The moment they reach the Attack Zone, a third attacker breaks in from the Start Zone to make it a 3v2 overload

6）The three attackers score it — either finish on goal or carry the ball across the center line

7）If the defenders win the ball, they counter right away at a small goal