Build-Up Patterns | Move the Ball Forward from the Back as a Unit

Overview

• Full 11-a-side session
• Goalkeeper stays put and feeds the ball from the back
• Defenders, midfielders, and forwards all working together
• Standard training space (field roughly 50 x 65)

Objectives

• Build the foundation for moving the ball as a unit, from the goalkeeper all the way up to the forwards
• Sharpen passing accuracy under pressure
• Make good positioning and constant support second nature
• Get players executing steady build-up within the flow of a game

Setup

This is a full-team session where players take the ball from the goalkeeper, work it forward as a unit through several patterns, and once it reaches the forwards, switch it out to the other side and bring it back.

１）Everyone sets up in their positions and the goalkeeper starts with the ball.

２）The goalkeeper feeds the ball to the defender closest to their side.

３）The player receiving it plays the ball on to the next teammate with as few touches as possible.

４）Defenders and midfielders work together, stringing short passes to move the ball forward.

５）Once the ball reaches the forwards, keep it going by using the wide areas or switching it to the other side.

６）When the ball works its way back toward goal, run the pattern again.