Text sent to the model

TITLE: 3v1 / 4v1 Rondo

PLAYERS: 4–5 players

DURATION: 10 minutes

TAGS: U10, U12, U14, U16, Adult, 11-a-side, 9-a-side, 7-a-side, 5-a-side, Developing, Advanced, Passing, Small-Sided Games

DESCRIPTION: A classic possession rondo in which 3 or 4 players on the outside keep the ball from one central defender. The emphasis is on quick combination play, supporting angles, and limiting touches to increase the challenge.

OBJECTIVES:
- Develop quick passing and first-touch control under pressure
- Improve support movement and angle creation
- Teach players to switch play and use the numerical advantage

EQUIPMENT: balls, cones (to mark the area)

MAIN ACTIVITY: Mark out a small square or circle (approx. 8–12 m across). Place one defender in the middle and 3 (or 4) players on the outside. Outside players must keep the ball away from the central defender. If the defender wins the ball or forces it out, the player who lost it swaps into the middle. Play for 90-second rounds; rotate defenders regularly.

COACHING POINTS:
- Position yourself to offer a passing option before you receive
- Use the outside of the foot to disguise pass direction
- Play quickly — one or two touches when possible
- Support the player on the ball by creating angles left and right

PROGRESSIONS:
- 3v1 (easier) → 4v1 (harder for the defender)
- Limit the outside players to two touches, then one touch
- Restrict passing to one side only (left or right)
- Add a second defender to create a 4v2 rondo