From Build-Up to Goal | Keeping the Ball and Making Decisions Under Pressure

Overview

• This session is for players who have to read a whole sequence of decisions, from keeping the ball to getting a shot away.
• It’s especially good for midfielders and defenders who step into the build-up.
• It works well for players you want to see stay calm and decisive when the other team is pressing.

Objectives

• Sharpen their ability to keep the ball in tight spaces.
• Get them reading the next play faster while they’re under pressure.
• Build the habit of breaking the defensive line with a pass or a dribble to open up a shot.
• Lock in the full sequence of winning the ball, breaking quickly into attack, and going for goal.

Setup

Play on a 30m x 36m field with 14 players (goalkeepers included). The team in possession has to string together at least 3 passes under pressure, then break the line and go for goal.

１）Put the 6 players in possession (+GK) in the middle of the field, and the 6 pressing players (+GK) around the outside.

２）Once the possession team completes 3 or more passes, they’re allowed to play through the defensive line and go for goal.

３）The pressing team starts by pressing with 2 players. The moment they win it, they attack quickly toward either of the two side goals (their choice).

４）A goal or a turnover ends the rep. Switch attack and defense, then go again.