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5-a-side·PassingSmall-Sided Games

5v2 Rotating Defenders

7 playersU8U9U10U11U12U13U14U15U16DevelopingAdvanced

A possession drill with five attackers vs two rotating defenders. Defenders enter for each play, and the attackers aim to complete a target number of passes. Develops quick decision-making, vision, and passing under pressure.

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Main Activity~60 min

Create a 15x15 yard grid. Five attackers inside the grid in alternate jerseys. Remaining players pair up as defenders behind one corner with the supply of balls. The first pair of defenders passes a ball into the 5 attackers. Defenders immediately step in, creating a 5v2. Attackers attempt to complete a set number of passes; if achieved, defenders do push-ups. Attackers continue passing until defenders win the ball or it goes out of play. Once play ends, the next pair of defenders enters the grid. Original defenders return to the line.

  • Vision: heads on a pivot scanning the field
  • Changes in direction and speed of play
  • Appropriate first touch towards space
  • Good short and long passing decisions
  • Good passes to feet
  • Speed of decisions
Cones (for 15x15 grid)Soccer ballsAlternate jerseys
Easier: larger grid (easier for attackers) or 4v2 instead of 5v2Harder: smaller grid; introduce splits as a bonus objective (defenders do 10 push-ups per split)