4v4+3 Continuous Transition Rondo
This drill develops quick decision-making, first-touch passing, defensive pressing, and transition play. Players learn to maintain possession under pressure while reacting instantly to role changes when possession shifts.
Rondo drill, 4v4+3, possession soccer, transition play, pressing, small-sided game
A high-intensity rondo focusing on quick transitions, possession play, and defensive pressing in a 10x20-yard area with rotating roles.
Drill Setup
- Field Size: Two adjacent 10x10-yard grids (total 10x20 yards) marked by 6 cones
- Players: 11 total (3 possession players, 2 teams of 4)
- Roles:
Yellow (3 players): Always in possession (one inside, two on end lines)
Red (4 players): Starts as outside possession team on the sidelines
Blue (4 players): Starts as an inside defenders
Drill Instructions
- The red team (4 players) and the yellow team (3 players) maintain possession, using quick passing.
- The blue team (4 players) applies defensive pressure inside the grid to win the ball.
- If the blue team wins possession, they must quickly pass to an outside player, transitioning to the new possession team.
- Having lost possession, the red team immediately moves inside to defend.
- The game continues fluidly, with teams transitioning between possession and defending without stopping.
- Play in 3-5 minute rounds, emphasizing continuous movement and quick transitions.
- Rotate each team as the possession team.
Drill Variations
- Touch Restriction: Limit possession players to two touches max.
- Man-Marking Challenge: Defenders must track specific players to increase defensive intensity.
- Time-Limited Possession: Require possession teams to complete 6-8 passes before switching play.
- Extra Defender: Add a neutral defensive player to increase difficulty for possession teams.
- Directional Play: Designate one end line as the attacking side where possession must be played into before scoring a point.
Drill Coaching Points
This drill enhances possession skills, defensive reactions, and team communication while simulating real-game transitions in a controlled, high-tempo environment.
Focus on:
- Quick Transitions: Players must react instantly when possession changes.
- First-Touch Passing: Encourage sharp, precise one- or two-touch passing.
- Support Play: Off-ball movement is crucial for creating passing angles.
- Defensive Pressing: Defenders should work as a unit to force mistakes and win possession quickly.
- Communication: Players must constantly talk to organize transitions and maintain possession.
Equipment
- Disc Cones/Markers - Mini or Full-Size Disc Cones are a critical piece of equipment that every soccer coach must have in your equipment bag.
- Scrimmage Vests - Scrimmage vests, also called bibs or pinnies, are also another must-have in your soccer coaching equipment bag.
- Soccer Balls - Every player should have a soccer balls at practice to have a successful training session.
Drill Ages
Soccer Drill Skill Focus
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