8v6 in the final third

Aim

Develop attacking play against an organized defensive line, strengthen the coordination and movement of the midfielders and the forwards, practice creating a numerical advantage and passing accurately, and make quick decisions in real game situations against a stable 4-4-2 block. The attack can also be run through the inside channels.

How it runs

The defending team sets up as a back four with two holding midfielders, as in a 4-4-2. The attacking team plays as a 4-3-3, with three midfielders and three forwards, and the two fullbacks join the attack to create the numerical advantage. The exercise creates real game situations against an organized line. When the defense wins the ball, it tries to score in one of the mini goals.

Setup

1. Position the players by role, according to the two systems
2. Attack: three midfielders, three forwards and the two fullbacks
3. Defense: a back four and two holding midfielders
4. Add 3 mini goals at the far end of the pitch as targets for the defending team

Coaching points

• Keep the structure: 4-4-2 in defense and 4-3-3 in attack
• Movement and support: midfielders and forwards move well, create space and offer passing options
• Quick decisions: when to release the ball, who to pass to and how to create the advantage against the defense
• Accurate passing and finishing: find players in the right position and complete the attack
• Pressure and tracking: defenders close the lanes, hold their positions and track the movement of the attack
• Keep the tempo and the flow, with fast switches between attack and defense