unlock compact defences like top teams do

' Copyright by Athanasios Terzis 2013

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UNLOCK COMPACT DEFENCES LIKE TOP TEAMS DO

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INTRODUCTION

The following project analyzes how top teams like Real Madrid, Bayern Munchen,

Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund and Ajax create tactical situations during the games, in order

to unlock compact defences and create scoring chances. Additionally, it is provided a

training session composed of three or four practices (total 32) for each one of these

situations to help coaches create similar tactical situations during the games.


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1st TACTICAL SITUATION

AJAX AMSTERDAM: CREATING SPACE FOR THE ATTACKING MI DFIELDER

On diagram 1 Ajax is building the attack from the back and Moisander passes to

Aderweireld. Both the fullback and the winger of Ajax are placed near the sideline and keep

the four oppositions defenders as well as the four midfielders stretched. This means that

the four defenders are not placed close to each other and it is easier for gaps to be created.

Furthermore passing lanes are created between the four midfielders and it is easier for the

players placed behind them to receive potential passes. Finally the attacking midfielder De

Jong takes up a position between the lines.


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The centre forward Eriksen drops back and towards the passing lane to provide a passing

option. Oppositions No 5 follows him deeper in the field and space is created behind him.


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De Jong attacks the free space and receives the ball after the quick (using one touch)

passing combination between Eriksen and Lukoki. No 21 Boeriggter and No 6 Enoh enter

the box to provide passing options during De Jongs cross.

What is necessary to create a similar situation:

- To train players carrying out the specific passing pattern in the specific part of the field

- To train player in synchronizing their movements

- To train players in retaining possession at the back and find the available time and

space to obtain a forward pass


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DRILLS FOR TRAINING THIS SITUATION

DRILL 1

Objective: To train players in the specific passing pattern as well as in synchronizing their

movements when creating and exploiting the free space.

Players: 10

Description : The drill is executed in a playing area of 35X35 yards. A players pass the

ball to each other. As soon as one of them decides to move forward with the ball and drive

the ball through the cones (trigger) player C of the strong side drops back to provide a

passing option. A passes to C and C passes one touch to D while player B has already

moved towards the free space (blue marked area). D uses also one touch play and passes

towards the path of B. The last one makes a shoot towards the small goal. The players

move one position forward (A to B, B to C, C to D).


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Coaching points:

Quick combination play

Synchronized movements

Quick and accurate finishing

DRILL 2

Objective: To find time and space in order to obtain a forward pass as well as to create

and take advantage of the free space.

Players: 13+GK

Description : Inside the blue marked area there is a situation of 3+2 v 2. Inside the yellow

area there are two red players (attacking midfielders) who help the three red players inside

the blue area to retain possession.


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Furthermore there are two wingers placed outside the playing area and provide passing

options for the two forwards placed inside the light blue area in a 2 v 2 against the two blue

defenders. The aim of the red players inside the dark blue area is to find a way to drive the

ball between the goals indicated by the yellow cones and obtain a forward pass towards the

forwards. On the other hand the blue players try to win possession and drive the ball

through the red end line in order to score. The two attacking midfielders (No 6 and No 10)

help the three red players to achieve their aim. As soon as one of the reds moves with the

ball between the yellow cones, the forward of the strong side drops deep outside of the light

blue area to provide a passing option and create space. The attacking midfielder must

attack the free space, receive the ball after the quick passing combination and shoot on

goal.

Restrictions : The defenders should man mark the forwards and follow them outside the

area. They cannot cross the white line which divides the light blue playing area. The

wingers outside the playing area as well as the attacking midfielders inside the yellow one

(when playing as outside players) should use one touch.

Coaching points:

Retaining possession





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DRILL 3

Objective: To find time and space to obtain a forward pass as well as to create and take

advantage of the free space.

Players: 13+GK

Description : The two teams play 3 + 4 outside players + GK v 4 inside the low area of the

field. The red players with the help of the GK and the four outside players try to retain

possession and find a way to make a forward pass towards the centre forward who is

placed inside the blue area. As soon as one of the reds is ready to make a forward pass

the centre forward must drop deep outside the blue area and carry out a passing

combination with the help of the winger who is inside the dark blue area. The attacking

midfielder should take advantage of the free space, receive the ball inside the blue area

and score. In case the blue players inside the low area win possession they can score.


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Restrictions : The defenders cannot cross the white line and they should man mark the

forward and follow him outside the area. The outside players use one touch or should pass

within three seconds after receiving, while the wingers inside the dark blue area should use

one touch.

Coaching points:






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2nd TACTICAL SITUATION

AJAX AMSTERDAM: OVERLOADING A CENTRAL PART OF THE F IELD

On diagram 1 Ajax is trying to build up through the centre. As Alderweireld observes that

the centre forward Eriksen is placed towards the weak side he passes to the defensive

midfielder Poulsen. (If Poulsen wasnt free the switch of play could have been made

through a pass towards the other central defender). The two attacking midfielders Enoh

and De Jong are placed between the lines. Enoh makes a move to take up position

towards a potential passing lane.


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The blue midfielders shift and try to create a defensive triangle but Enoh takes up a good

position and is able to receive a potential diagonal pass behind them. This positioning

creates a 3 v 2 situation which is difficult for the blues to deal with. So the blue right fullback

No2 is between two opponents Enoh and Boeriggter.


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As No2 decides not to move close to Enoh in order to avoid creating space for Boeriggter,

Ajaxs attacking midfielder receives free of marking and turns quickly facing the oppositions

goal. As the opponent defenders shift, the centre forward Eriksen moves diagonally behind

No 4 while Boeriggter on the left moves forward. Enoh has two passing options.


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In case No2 had decided to move close to Enoh in order to close him down quickly if the

ball was directed to him, space is created for Boeriggter. Poulsen reads the tactical

situation and makes a long pass towards Ajaxs winger.


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- To train players in retaining possession at the back and finding the available time and

space to obtain a forward pass

- To train players in reading the positioning of the forwards and recognizing where the

overload takes place

- To synchronize the attacking midfielders movement towards the available passing

lanes with the moment that the player in possession is available to pass the ball forward

- To train the man in possession in making the appropriate decision according to the

tactical situation


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DRILL 1


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Objective: To train players to identify which part is overloaded in order to direct the ball

towards this area. To train players to move towards the passing lanes at the right time in

order to receive the potential passes between the lines.

Players: 8+GK

Description : The two central defenders pass the ball to each other and as soon as one of

them decides to enter the dark blue area with the ball (trigger), the centre forward

overloads the left or the right blue marked area and the attacking midfielder of the strong

side should take up position towards a passing lane. If the ball is passed to the defensive

midfielder with the aim of directing the ball towards the weak sides light blue area, because

the overload takes place there, the attacking midfielder of this area should take up a

position towards the passing lane when the man in possession is able to pass the ball

forward.


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It is the centre forwards decision which area will be overloaded and it is the defenders

responsibility to read the tactical situation, recognize where the overload is and direct the

ball towards the attacking midfielder of the overloaded side. This can happen either through

the defensive midfielder as it is shown on diagram 1 or after a direct pass as it is presented

on diagram 2. The new player in possession should turn quickly and choose one of the two

options shown in the analysis in order for his team to score a goal. Variation : In case the

team is using the 4-2-3-1 formation the most advanced positioned defensive midfielder

must move forward and take up a position behind the oppositions midfielders as it is shown

on diagram 2.

Coaching points:

Reading the tactical situation


Passing accuracy



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DRILL 2

Objective: To train players in identifying which part is overloaded in order to direct the ball

towards this area. To train players in moving towards the passing lanes at the right time in

order to receive the potential passes between the lines. To train players in making the right

decision according to the tactical situation on the field.

Players: 15+GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. The red team has now to attack

against the blue team and score. The three blue midfielders are placed inside the yellow

area trying to intercept the through passes. The man in possession has to read the tactical

situation and make the right decision. On the example above the defensive midfielder

directs the ball towards the winger who takes advantage the free space on the flank.


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Restrictions : The blue midfielders move only inside the yellow areas but they cannot enter

the red ones which stand for the passing lanes. The blue defenders have to defend inside

their own areas, however they can move outside of them if the reds have managed to drive

the ball or pass the ball outside of them.

Coaching points:



Passing accuracy



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DRILL 3

Objective: All the objectives of the previous drills as well as to train players in retaining

possession at the back in order to find available time and space to make a forward pass.

Players: 17+GK

Description : The two teams play 3 v 2 inside the dark blue area whereas inside the light

blue areas there is a 2 v 2 situation. The centre forward is placed in the central unmarked

area and moves freely either right or left to create a 3 v 2. The three blue midfielders are

placed inside the yellow area and seek to intercept the through passes. The red players

inside the dark blue area try to retain possession and find a way to pass the ball forward

towards the overloaded part of the field. When this takes place the blue midfielders can

move out of the yellow area while the reds seek to take advantage of the 3 v 2 and score a


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goal. If the blues win possession they try to score within 8-10 seconds by moving one

player inside the dark blue area (3 v 3).

Restrictions : The blue midfielders cannot enter the red areas which stand for the passing

lanes. The blue defenders have to defend inside their own areas, however they can move

outside of them if the reds have managed to drive the ball or pass the ball outside of them.

Coaching points:



Passing accuracy



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3rd TACTICAL SITUATION

AJAX AMSTERDAM: OVERLOADING THE FLANK

The central defender Moisander passes to the left fullback Blind. The winger Boeriggter is

placed towards the centre while the attacking midfielder Enoh takes up a position behind

the blue midfielders. Boeriggters position creates space near the side line.


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Enoh moves to take advantage of the free space and creates a 2 v 1 situation on the flank

as blue No 8 is away from him.


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Blind passes to Enoh and the last one receives and moves forward. No2 moves to close

him down while Boeriggter moves behind him and Eriksen shifts to provide a passing

option. The blue team has to deal with a situation of inferiority in numbers as No2 has to

defend against two opponents. Enoh has two passing options.


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Passing option 1 leads No 21 in possession near the corner flag while there is a 2 v 2

inside the penalty area and Eriksen makes a move to receive just outside the box. The red

team is balanced and ready to carry out successfully the negative transition as there are

three defenders (No4, No3 and No2) against two forwards (No9 and No10) while the

defensive midfielder (No5) and left fullback (No17) are in balanced positions.


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In case No 4 follows No 21 the centre forward Eriksen stays free of marking. Enoh passes

him the ball, while No 10 and No27 use diagonal runs. Eriksen has two passing options.


- To train players in creating space near the sideline

- To synchronize the attacking midfielders movement towards the available space as well

as the centre forwards movement towards the strong side with the moment that the

pass towards the fullback is available

- To train the man in possession in making the appropriate decision according to the

tactical situation on the field


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DRILL 1

Objective: To train players in identifying towards which side of the field is the ball going to

be directed. To train players in creating and exploiting space on the flanks.

Players: 16+GK

Description : The blue players take up positions indicated by the yellow cones. There are

two blue players inside each yellow marked area near the side lines and the nearest central

defender is free to decide whether is going to enter it or not. There are two centre forwards

for the red team on the blue cones, however only one is permitted to participate in the

attack. The two central defenders pass the ball to each other and as soon as one of them

decides to drive the ball through the two blue cones (trigger), the winger of the strong side

converges and creates space on the flank.


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At the same time the attacking midfielder moves to take advantage of it. The fullback

receives and passes the ball to the attacking midfielder who then has to make the right

decision according to the tactical situation. If the central defender decides to follow the

winger the pass is going to be directed to No8. On the other hand if the central defender

stays close to the centre forward, then the pass is going to be made behind the fullback

and towards the winger.

Restrictions : Only the central defender of the strong side can enter the yellow marked

area. The blue defenders have to defend inside their own areas, however they can move

outside of them if the reds have managed to drive the ball or pass the ball outside of them.

Coaching points:



Decision making



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DRILL 2

Objective: To train players in identifying towards which side of the field is the ball going to

be directed. To train players in creating and exploiting space on the flanks.

Players: 18+GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. The attacking midfielder now has to

deal with the pressure of the blue defensive midfielder. So as soon as he makes a move

towards the sideline the blue midfielder follows his run. If the red player (attacking

midfielder), delays to proceed with the attack then the numerical superiority will be turned

into equality in numbers.

Restrictions : Except for the defensive midfielder, only the central defender of the strong

side can enter the yellow marked area.


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The blue defenders have to defend inside their own areas, however they can move outside

of them if the reds have managed to drive the ball or pass the ball outside of them.

Coaching points:



Decision making



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DRILL 3

Objective: To train players in creating and exploiting space on the flanks.

Players: 20 + 2GK

Description : The two teams play 11 v 11. There are two yellow marked areas near the

sidelines. In these areas only the fullback and the side midfielder of the blue team are

allowed to enter while the red team can create a 3 v 2 with the winger the fullback and the

attacking midfielder. This rule can be applied until the end of the game or only for an

amount of time (e.g. for the first 15 minutes), after this the blue defensive midfielders are

also allowed to enter the yellow areas. Both teams try to score.


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Coaching points:



Decision making



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4th TACTICAL SITUATION

ARSENAL: ATTACK ON THE FLANK THROUGH QUICK COMBINAT ION PLAY

The midfielder Rosicky passes towards the right fullback Sagna. Ramsey is moving

between the lines and close to the ball zone to be ready to provide support. Ozil drops a

few yards back to receive and as No3 follows his move he receives and directs one touch

the ball to Ramsey. Ramsey passes back to Ozil (wall pass) and Ozil receives behind the

oppositions fullback who is caught by surprise due to the quick passing combination.


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Ozil has three options to pass the ball. The major danger for the whites comes from the

passes towards the players who were placed between the lines and now are just outside

the box (option 2 and 3). Arsenal looks balanced at the back as Koncielny and Mertesacker

have to deal with one forward while Arteta, Rosicky and the two fullbacks are ready to

intercept a potential clearance.


- To train players technique while executing the specific passing combination

- To train the attacking midfielders movement in order to be well synchronized


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DRILL 1

Objective: To train players in carrying out the specific passing combination with good

technique. To train the synchronization of the supporting players (B) run.

Players: 8

Description : The drill starts with players A pass towards player B. The last one has

already got free of marking by touching the red cone and dropping back to receive. B plays

the back pass towards As path and A passes to C. C drops back and passes one touch

towards Bs path and B carries out the wall pass using also one touch. The ball then is

directed towards the starting point of the drill on the other side. The drill is executed

towards both sides at the same time. Players move one position forward (A to B, B to C).

More players can be used in every station.


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Restrictions : All players should use one touch

Coaching points:

The weight and the accuracy of the pass needs to be correct


DRILL 2


technique and by using well timed runs in the specific area of the field despite the fact that

this combination play can be used everywhere in the attacking third of the field.

Players: 12+GK

Description : The drill starts with the coachs pass towards player D. The last one has

already got free of marking by touching the red cone and dropping back to receive.


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D plays the back pass towards As path. A passes to B while D has already make a move

towards the sideline. B passes to C who drops back and the last one carries out the 1-2

with D who uses a well timed run in order to provide support. Then C makes the cross

either towards the centre forward E or towards the attacking midfielder D. The drill

afterwards is executed towards the other side. All players move one position forward.

Restrictions : All players should use one touch if possible.

Coaching points:



DRILL 3


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technique as well as by using well timed runs

Players: 14

Description : The two teams play 7 v 5 in a playing area of 40X40 yards. The team in

possession plays with 7 players who seek to take up the appropriate positions in order to

carry out the specific passing combination using one of the mannequins as their target. The

two final passes (the set up-4th pass and the wall pass-5th pass) must be carried out using

one touch in order for the team to score a goal. In case the opponents win possession they

should pass towards one of the two outside players. Then two players of the other team

enter the yellow marked areas and the teams play 7 v 5 again.

Coaching points:



Good positioning


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ARSENAL: OVERLOADING THE STRONG SIDE AND

OBTAIN A QUICK SWITCH OF PLAY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE 2 v 1

Rosicky Arsenals midfielder directs the ball towards the right fullback Sagna who is in an

advanced position.


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Sagna receives the ball and Ozil drops back to provide a passing option as well as to be

the safety player in case possession is lost. Furthermore both No12 Giroux and No16

Ramsey move close to the ball zone. Both white teams central defenders shift towards the

strong side to mark them. No2 takes up a balanced position to control No 28 Gibbs in a 1 v

1 situation. However the distance between No4 and No2 has increased and white teams

right back has to defend having no team mates near him.


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As Arsenals players pass the ball quickly in order to obtain a switch of play, Cazorla moves

forward and creates a 2 v 1 situation against No 2.


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Gibbs passes to Cazorla who makes a move behind No2. The last one receives and makes

a cross towards No16 and No12 in a 2 v 2 inside the box. Arsenal is well balanced at the

back and ready for negative transition.


- To train players in passing with speed and accuracy

- To synchronize the players movements towards the strong side to create an overload

as well as creating a 2 v 1 in the weak side

- To train players in creating overloads in specific parts of the field


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DRILL 1


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Objective: To train players in creating overload in the strong side using well timed runs as

well as in passing with speed and accuracy during switching play.

Players: 8+GK

Description : The players take up positions which are indicated by the red cones. The

midfielders start to pass the ball with the aim of directing it towards the one side. During

passing the ball towards the side, both the forward and the attacking midfielder move

towards this side. As soon as the fullback receives the ball the winger drops back receive

and starts switching the point of attack. When the ball reaches the weak sides fullback, the

winger makes a diagonal movement behind the mannequin, receives the ball and gets a

cross. There can be more than one player in every cone in order to keep the drill running

immediately after each cross.


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Coaching points:

Speed and accuracy of the passes


Good positioning

DRILL 2



Players: 8 + 2 v 6 + GK


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Description : The two teams play 8 + 2 outside players v 6. The yellow players with the

help of the outside players move the ball from side to side and try to create overloads in

order to force both the central defenders to move inside the marked area of the strong side.

As soon as this takes place they try to take advantage of the 2 v 1 on the weak side by

moving the ball quickly towards this side. If the white players win possession they try to

drive the ball through the red end line or receive a pass within the dark blue area.

Restrictions : The central defenders should follow the forward and the attacking midfielder

inside the marked area when they try to overload the side.

Coaching points:



Good positioning


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DRILL 3



Players: 20 + 2GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. The two teams play 10 v 10 + 2GK.

The yellows have the same aim while the whites try to score if they win possession.

Restrictions : The central defenders should follow the forward and the attacking midfielder

inside the marked area when they try to overload the side.


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Coaching points:



Good positioning


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BORUSSIA DORTMUND: OVERLOADING THE CENTRE

USING THE 4-2-3-1 FORMATION

Hummels, Borussias central defender has the ball. As the team has to deal with two

forwards of the opposition, Bender the defensive midfielder drops back and creates a 3 v 2

situation. This positioning enables Borussias players to find available time and space in

order to obtain a forward pass.


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Hummels finds available space and moves forward with the ball. As Hummelss direction is

towards the right side, the fullback Schmelzer drops back to provide safety at the back by

retaining the numerical superiority (3 v 2) while the other fullback Gros/tz stays in advanced

position. The positioning of the four players who are placed behind the midfielders creates

a 4 v 3.


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Hummels finds the passing lane and directs the ball towards Lewandowski. Mkhitaryan

makes the curved move and receives the back pass from Borussias centre forward facing

the oppositions goal. He has the option to take a shoot or pass to Blasz/wski.


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However in case the central defender No5 shifts quickly together with fullback No3 in order

to close down Mkh/ryan and block the potential through pass, space will be created on the

flank for the fullback Gros/tz.


- To train players in creating numbers up situations at the back

- To train players in moving towards the potential passing lanes

- To train players in the specific passing combination

- To train players in making well timed runs to receive the final pass


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DRILL 1

Objective: To train players in moving towards the passing lanes and carrying out two

specific passing patterns.

Players: 16

Description : The drill starts with players A pass towards B while D and C take up positions

towards the two passing lanes. They have to be placed in different passing lanes. B passes

back to A and for as long as the combination lasts D and C take up positions towards

different passing lanes and are ready to receive As next pass. After A makes his second

pass the two players have to carry out one of the two combinations shown on the diagram

(depending on who receives the pass from A) and then pass to one of E players. The drill is

executed towards the two sides at the same time.


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Coaching points:

The weight of the passes needs to be correct

Accuracy in passing


Constant mobility



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DRILL 2


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Objective: To train players in retaining possession at the back in order to find available

time and space to pass the ball forward. To train players in moving towards the passing

lanes and carrying out specific passing patterns.

Players: 8

Description : The four yellow players inside the blue marked area play against the two blue

players. They try to retain possession and find the available time and space to pass the ball

forward towards the attacking midfielder and the forward through the two passing lanes

between the mannequins. These players seek to take up positions towards the two

potential passing lanes and carry out the two passing combinations shown on diagram 1

and 2. They have to time their runs as soon as the forward pass is obtained in order to

carry out the combination perfectly and score. In case the blues win possession they seek

to drive the ball through the red lines in order to score.


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Restrictions : For as long the yellow players inside the blue area try to find a way to obtain

the forward pass, the two forwards should move constantly

Coaching points:


Accuracy in passing


Constant mobility



DRILL 3


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Players: 17+GK

Description : The two teams play 4 v 2 inside the yellow marked area, while the blue

defenders are placed inside the red area and seek to intercept the through passes. The

blue defenders are inside the blue marked area. The yellow players inside the yellow area

try to find a way to pass the ball towards either the centre forward or the attacking

midfielder. As soon as this takes place the blue midfielders as well as the defenders can

move out of their areas. The yellows try to score while the blues seek to win possession

and score too.

Restrictions : The blue players inside the red and the blue area can move out only when a

forward pass is obtained. In case the blues win possession they can move only two players

inside the yellow area (4 v 4) and they should score within 10 seconds.

Coaching points:

Accuracy in passing


Constant mobility



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DRILL 4




Players: 17+2GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill and the same rules are applied.

Coaching points:

Accuracy in passing


Constant mobility



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BORUSSIA DORTMUND: OVERLOADING THE LEFT CENTRAL PAR T OF THE

FIELD AND ATTACK WITH THE FULLBACKS WELL TIMED FOR WARD RUN

Borussia Dortmund tries to build up. Hummels has the ball and as the team has to deal with

two forwards Bender drops back towards the side line to create a 3 v 2. This action enables

Dortmund players to find available time and space in order to make a forward pass. Sahin

moves in a central position to provide balance.


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Hummels passes to Bender. As the new man in possession is able to pass the ball forward,

Mkh/ryan makes a move towards the potential passing lane. Reuss position towards the

centre creates not only a 2 v 1 situation but also free space on the flank. In a situation like

this No2 is forced to leave Mkh/ryan free of marking as he has already a player to mark.

The left fullback Schmelzer is in a balanced position which enables him to move forward

and take advantage of the free space as well as to move quickly back and control No7 in

case possession is lost.


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Bender makes the forward pass and as Schmelzer moves to exploit the free space, Reus

makes a move towards the centre and enters the box. This creates a 3 v 3 inside the box

and increases Borussias chances to score a goal. Borussia is also well balanced at the

back as there is a 3 v 2 and Sahin is in a position to provide immediate help to the

defenders if necessary.


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In case Schmelzer is in a deeper position and No7 can easily track his forward run, Reus

makes a move to create width and make it easier for his team mate to find the right solution

during the 2 v 1 against blue No2. Mkh/ryan passes to Reus in a wide position and the last

one makes the cross for Lewandowski and Blasz/ski in a 3 v 2 situation inside the box.


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If No2 decides to drop back and leave No10 under No5s control, then space and time is

provided to Mkh/ryan to make a diagonal killer pass. The right fullback Gros/tz moves

forward to provide an option for a potential switch of play, as Schmelzer stays back.


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Finally if No 5 takes up a position which blocks the diagonal pass for Blasz/ski, No 10 can

play the 1-2 with Lewandowski who has already taken up the appropriate position.


- To train players in creating numbers up situations at the back


- To train players in synchronizing their runs

- To train players in decision making


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DRILL 1


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Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements and reading the tactical

situation (winger)

Players: 12+GK

Description : The coach starts the drill by passing towards one of the central defenders.

The new man in possession will direct the ball towards the other side in order to give time

to the players to synchronize their movements. So when No4 passes to No15 the defensive

midfielders starts his dropping back movement. As soon as he receives the ball from No15,

No10 moves towards the passing lane. No11 has to read the fullbacks position and move

accordingly either towards the box (diagram 1) or towards the side line (diagram 2). The

fullback starts his forward movement as soon as the defensive midfielder makes the

forward pass towards No10. When the drill is going to be executed towards the right side,

No9 and No10 of the left side dont take part in the drill.


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Restrictions : The fullbacks dont make forward runs in every repetition

Coaching points:




DRILL 2


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Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements as well as in decision making

Players: 16+GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. This time the forwards have to deal

with four blue defenders. Again the wingers movement depends on the fullbacks

participation in the attack. However No10 has to read the tactical situation and decide what

is the best option according to the defenders reaction. Diagram 2 shows the potential

options for No10 in case No2 passes the responsibility of his marking to No4. When the drill

is going to be executed towards the right side, No9 and No10 of the left side dont take part

in the drill.


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Restrictions : The fullbacks dont make forward runs in every repetition

Coaching points:



Decision making


DRILL 3

Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements as well as in decision making

Players: 20 + 2GK


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Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. The teams play 11 v 11. There is a

4 v 2 situation inside the low unmarked area. The yellow players seek to retain possession

and find a way to pass the ball through the red passing lanes. The blue midfielders as well

as the yellow fullbacks are placed inside the blue marked area. As soon as the ball is

passed towards the attacking midfielder inside the yellow marked area the blue midfielders

can move out of the blue area. The yellows seek to take advantage of the 2 v 1 inside the

yellow area and score as the blue central defender of the strong side can enter the specific

area only after No10 receives the ball. In case the blues win possession they try to score.

Restrictions : The blue midfielders cannot enter the red marked areas. However as soon

as a forward pass inside the yellow area is obtained they can move out of the blue area. On

the contrary the yellow fullbacks can move inside the yellow area whenever they want but

they cannot drop inside the unmarked area to help their team mates. The blue central

defenders can enter the yellow areas only after No10 receives the ball. If the blues win

possession there are no restrictions as regards the marked areas and all the players move

freely.

Coaching points:


Accurate passing


Decision making



72


REAL MADRID: CREATING A 2 v 1 ON THE FLANK

Real Madrids central defender Pepe has the ball. Modric makes a move to receive

between the lines. On the right flank there is a 2 v 2 situation.


73

As soon as the pass is made towards Di Maria near the side line, Isco moves near the ball

area and creates a 3 v 2. Alonso drops between the two oppositions forwards in order to

create a 3 v 2 at the back.


74

Isco continues his run behind No3 and receives the pass from Di Maria. Then he gets the

cross for either Benzema or Ronaldo. Real is balanced at the back and ready for negative

transition.


- To train players in synchronizing their runs during the specific passing combination

- To train players create overloads in specific parts of the field


75


DRILL 1

Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements during the specific passing

combination

Players: 8 or more

Description : The drill starts with Bs pass to A. A passes back to C and C directs the ball

towards Bs path. At the meantime A starts his diagonal run towards the side line and

receives Bs pass. The passing sequence is repeated as all players move one position

forward (A to B, B to C, C to D, D to A). The drill must be executed in more than 3 big

cones (as it is shown on diagram) and players can carry it out towards the other side at the

same time. The players use one or two touches.


76

Coaching points:


The weight of the pass needs to be correct

DRILL 2

Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements, overloading the specific part

of the field and finishing with accuracy.

Players: 10+GK


77

Description : The drill starts with the coachs pass to No3 and the passing combination

between No3, No14 and No4, before the ball is directed to No19 and then towards the

winger. As soon as No19 makes the pass towards No22, the attacking midfielder (No23)

moves inside the yellow area and when No22 receives he makes the diagonal movement

behind the mannequin. The cross is directed towards No9 and No7. Afterwards the drill is

executed towards the other side and the coachs first pass is directed to No4.

Coaching points:





78

DRILL 3

Objective: To train players in retaining possession at the back, synchronizing their

movements, and overloading the specific part of the field.

Players: 15 + 2GK

Description : The two teams play 4 + GK v 3 inside the yellow marked area. The yellows

with the help of the GK (who plays as an outside player) try to find a way to pass the ball

towards one of the wingers who at the right time move towards the side line to provide

width. As soon as the forward pass is obtained, either the centre forward or the attacking

midfielder enters the strong sides yellow area to create a 2 v 1 and receive behind the

fullbacks back. The weak sides winger and the player left in the centre of the field move

inside the box to receive the cross in a 2 v 3 situation.


79

In case the blues win possession inside the low yellow marked area they can score by

driving the ball through the red end line.

Restrictions : The pass towards the white winger cannot be intercepted by the fullback.

The central defender of the strong side is not allowed to enter the yellow area.

Coaching points:





80

DRILL 4

Objective: To train players in retaining possession at the back, synchronizing their

movements, and overloading the specific part of the field.

Players: 20 + 2GK

Description : The two teams play 6 + GK v 6 inside the blue marked area. The yellows try

to find a way to pass the ball towards one of the wingers who at the right time move

towards the side line to provide width. As soon as the forward pass is obtained, the

attacking midfielder enters the strong sides yellow area to create a 2 v 1 and then receive

behind the fullbacks back. When the blues win possession there is no restriction as

regards the marked areas and they try to score within 8-10 seconds.


81

Restrictions : The pass towards the winger cannot be intercepted by the fullback. The

central defender of the strong side is not allowed to enter the yellow area. As soon as the

forward pass is made the players of the blue marked area can move out of it.

Coaching points:





82


REAL MADRID: THIRD MANS RUN

During Real Madrids building up from the back Pepe has the ball. Modric drops back

towards the free space to receive unmarked.


83

As Modric receives the pass and moves forward with the ball, Isco makes a forward

movement. At the same time Benzema drops back towards the passing lane to receive. As

Benzemas direct opponent (No5) follows his move, space is created behind him and Isco

moves to exploit it.


84

Modric passes to Benzema and the last one using one touch directs the ball towards the

free space. Isco receives and shoots on goal.


85

In case the fullback No 3 shifts quickly towards the centre and fills the gap, Isco can pass

the ball to Di Maria who has available space on the flank. Alonso stays close to the

defenders in order to provide safety at the back by creating a 3 v 2 situation.


- To train players in retaining possession at the back


- To train players in synchronizing their runs during the specific passing combination


86


DRILL 1

Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements and carrying out the specific

passing combination.

Players: 12

Description : Player A passes to D and D makes a back pass to the same player. A passes

on the run to B who drives the ball between the two blue cones. As soon as he moves

through the cone gate (trigger), D makes a forward run while C drops back. B passes to C

and C using one touch directs the ball towards the blue marked area. The same

combination is executed towards the other side at the same time.


87

Coaching points:



DRILL 2

Objective: To train players in synchronizing their movements and carrying out the specific

passing combination in the specific part of the field.

Players: 8+GK

Description : After a passing combination between the two central defenders (No4, No3)

and the defensive midfielder No19, the last one opens up and receives the ball from No3.

Then he moves quickly forward between the two blue cones (trigger).


88

The attacking midfielder who is placed lower in the field makes the forward run while the

centre forward drops back. No19 passes to the centre forward who has moved in front of

the mannequin and the last one directs the ball using one touch towards the blue marked

area. The attacking midfielder receives and shoots on goal. Then the drill is executed

towards the other side using the same passing combination.

Coaching points:

Quality in passing



DRILL 3


89

Objective: To train players in retaining possession, synchronizing their movements and

carrying out the specific passing combination.

Players: 13+2GK

Description : The two teams play 4 + GK v 3 inside the blue marked area. The whites with

the help of the GK seek to retain possession and find a way to obtain a forward pass, while

the blues try to win possession and drive the ball through the red end line to score. Inside

the central unmarked area there are two white players (attacking midfielders) in order for

the whites to be able to carry out the passing combination in both sides. Inside the dark

blue area there is a 2 v 2. The blue defenders have to man mark the two forwards and

follow them outside the area. As soon as the player in possession inside the light blue area

is able to pass the ball forward, the attacking midfielder moves forward and the centre

forward of the strong side drops back. The players try to carry out the specific passing

combination and score a goal. The defenders who man mark dont try to block the passes.

Coaching points:

Quality in passing




90


BAYERN MUNCHEN: STRETCHING THE OPPOSITIONS DEFENCE

Bayern Munchen uses the 4 -1-4-1 formation and Ribery with Robben are placed near the

sidelines. Kroos and Schw/ger take up positions between the lines. Rafinha and Alaba are

placed towards the centre to keep the team balanced. Alaba the ball carrier passes to

Ribery on the flank as the passing lane towards Kroos is blocked.


91

Ribery receives the ball and No2 together with No7 move to double mark him. In the

meantime Kroos moves behind No2s back and the central defender No4 follows his move.

This action stretches the blue teams defence as only two players stay in the centre of the

field against two Bayerns players. Furthermore Robben is free on the right flank. The aim

for Bayern now is to move the ball towards Muller or Schw/ger in order to take advantage of

the situation. Lahm moves to provide a passing option towards the centre.


92

Ribery passes to Lahm and the last one searches for the forward pass. As the passing lane

towards Muller is narrow Lahms choice is Schw/ger. No3 doesnt move forward to put him

under pressure as this would create space for Robben. So he leaves Schw/ger free of

marking.


93

Schw/ger has to make the right decision according to the defenders reaction.


94

In case the passing lane towards Muller is not blocked, Lahm can pass to him and Muller if

he is left free of marking he can turn and pass either to Schw/ger or Robben. If No5

decides to put pressure on him, a pass using one touch towards Schw/ger will lead to a 2 v

1 situation with Schw/ger and Robben against No3.


- To train players in using runs which force the central defenders to shift near the

sidelines

- To train players in moving quickly the ball towards the specific part of the field by

passing through the available passing lanes or in case there arent any by using

accurate long balls


- To train players in getting familiar with the 3 v 2 situation outside the box


95


DRILL 1


96

Objective: To train players in obtaining through passes and in moving towards the

potential passing options. Finally to train players in synchronizing their movements during

carrying out the potential passing combinations.

Players: 11+GK

Description : The red players take up the positions indicated by the yellow cones (there are

two players in each attacking midfielders position). The defensive midfielder starts the drill

by passing towards the winger and then shifts to provide support. At the meantime the

attacking midfielder of the strong side moves diagonally behind the pole. The winger

passes back and the defensive midfielder seeks to make a successful pass between the

mannequins targeting one of the two forwards inside the weak sides marked area (white-

the area indicated by the red cones).


97

After the pass is obtained the three red players try to carry out one of the combinations

shown in the analysis. The weak sides winger has already moved in a forward position and

he is ready to take part.

The drill then is executed towards the other side and the forwards should receive inside the

light blue area (indicated by the dark blue cones). The midfielders can also try accurate

long passes towards the weak sides attacking midfielder (diagram 2).

Coaching points:

Accuracy in passing



DRILL 2


98


potential passing options. Finally the players learn to make the right decisions during

playing 3 v 2 in the specific part of the field.

Players: 11+GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. This time after the through pass is

obtained, the red players play 3 v 2 (until the strong sides central defender is back again)

inside the white marked area and the man in possession has to decide what is the best

option, according to the defenders reaction. The central defender of the strong side has to

follow the attacking midfielders movement and move at least beyond the red line. After the

through (diagram 1) or long pass (diagram 2) is obtained the central defender can move

back and help his team mates. The red players have to quickly take advantage of the 3 v 2

situation inside the marked area and score.


99

The drill then is executed towards the other side and the forwards should receive inside the

light blue area (indicated by the dark blue cones).

Coaching points:

Accuracy in passing


Decision making


DRILL 3


100


potential passing options. Finally the players are trained to make the right decisions during

playing 3 v 2 in the specific part of the field.

Players: 20+2GK

Description : This is a progression of the previous drill. This time there is a 11 v 11 game.

The same rules are applied and there are the same restrictions. The reds try to move the

ball quickly from the side and obtain a forward pass inside the weak sides marked area.

Every time the red winger receives inside the yellow marked area, the fullback should move

to close him down and the red attacking midfielder should move behind his back (if his

position enables it). The blue central defender of the strong side must follow the attacking

midfielder every time the last one moves diagonally behind the fullback at least beyond the

red line. After the through pass is obtained, the red players try to take advantage of the 3 v

2 inside the weak sides marked area. If the ball is moved inside this area only the central

defender of the strong side can enter it and make it 3 v 3. No other player from the blue

team is allowed. In case the blue players win possession they try to score within 10

seconds.

Coaching points:

Accuracy in passing


Decision making


unlock compact defences like top teams do

Documents

athanasios terzis

train players

c passes

forward pass copyright

passing options

passing lane

specific passing pattern

player c