4v4 Scrimmage to Mini-Goals

Chris Johnson 1,668 Views Rating 0 (0 Reviews)

The objective of a 4v4 soccer scrimmage to mini-goals is to replicate the dynamics of a full-sided game in a smaller, more controlled environment. This format encourages players to focus on quick decision-making, positioning, and maintaining possession under pressure, as well as improving their ability to transition between attacking and defending. The mini-goals emphasize accuracy and composure in front of the goal, helping players develop finishing skills without the presence of a goalkeeper.

Soccer Drill Diagram: 4v4 Scrimmage to Mini-Goals

soccer scrimmage 4v4 to goals

The 4v4 scrimmage to mini-goals is to improve quick decision-making, positioning, and finishing accuracy in a small-sided game, emphasizing both attack and defense.

Drill Setup

Mark the Field: Set up a small field, approximately 30x20 yards, depending on the age and skill level of the players. Use cones to define the boundaries.
Place the Mini-Goals: Position two mini-goals on each end line of the field, centered along the width. Ensure there is enough space for the players to move around the goals.
Divide the Teams: Split the players into two teams of four. If there are extra players, rotate them regularly or set up a second game.
Explain the Rules: Brief the players on the basic rules—no goalkeepers, regular throw-ins, and the importance of teamwork, passing, and positioning.

Drill Instructions

Start the Game: Place the ball in the center of the field and have one team kick off. Encourage both teams to focus on quick passing, moving off the ball, and accurate shooting at the mini-goals.
Manage the Game: Monitor the game, guiding positioning and movement. Encourage positive play and emphasize the objectives of quick decision-making and teamwork.
Rotate Players (if needed): If you have more than eight players, rotate them in after a set time (e.g., every 5 minutes) to keep everyone engaged and active.

Drill Variations

Limit the number of touches
Teams can only score after x passes
All four players must touch the ball before scoring

Drill Coaching Points

Positioning: Encourage players to maintain good spacing and avoid bunching up, creating passing lanes and options.
Communication: Remind players to talk to each other, calling for the ball and directing teammates.
Quick Passing: Emphasize the importance of quick, accurate passes to keep possession and exploit gaps in the defense.
Movement Off the Ball: Encourage players to constantly move into space, making themselves available for passes.
Transition: Focus on quick transitions between attacking and defending; when the ball is lost, immediate pressure should be applied to win it back.
Decision-Making: Guide players on when to pass, dribble, or shoot, fostering good decision-making under pressure.
Defensive Shape: Ensure players understand the importance of staying compact defensively and working as a unit to block passing lanes.
Finishing: Emphasize composure and accuracy when shooting at the mini-goals, aiming for the corners to increase scoring chances.
Pressure the Ball: Instruct players to apply immediate pressure on the opponent with the ball to force mistakes and regain possession.
Positive Reinforcement: Provide positive feedback on good plays, encouraging creativity and effort on both sides of the ball.

Equipment

Drill Ages

Soccer Drill Skill Focus

Top Rated Soccer Drills

7v7 Scrimmage

Chris Johnson 160,977 Views Rating 4.4 (5 Reviews)

It's always good to finishing a soccer training session with a 7 vs. 7 scrimmage to focus on team play.

Sharks and Minnows

Chris Johnson 574,645 Views Rating 4.3 (166 Reviews)

The Sharks and Minnows dribbling drill focuses on using the body to protect the ball by placing their body in between the ball and the defender.

1v1 Diamond Shooting Drill

Chris Johnson 495,110 Views Rating 4.3 (10 Reviews)

Spice up your shooting combination drill by finishing with a 1v1 to goal. Add a fun little twist, and the kids love it.

Pirates of the Pugg

John Bychok 721,764 Views Rating 4.27 (384 Reviews)

This drill is an excellent drill for younger players ages 8-11 and focuses on dribbling technique in traffic which requires vision and awareness.

Alien Tag Soccer Game

Chris Johnson 343,415 Views Rating 4.27 (11 Reviews)

Alien tag is a great Under 4 soccer game for 3, 4, 5, and 6 year-olds. Your kids will like flying around and crashing in their spaceship.

4v4 Soccer to a Small Gate

Chris Johnson 250,228 Views Rating 4.24 (75 Reviews)

4v4 in soccer is the smallest game focusing on all aspects of a full sided soccer match.

The Flag Game - Dribbling in Tight Spaces

Chris Johnson 199,731 Views Rating 4.23 (48 Reviews)

The flat game soccer drill is designed to focus on young soccer players learning to dribble in tight spaces.

Four Corners Passing Game

Chris Johnson 803,509 Views Rating 4.2 (284 Reviews)

The Four Corners Soccer Passing Game is a great soccer passing drill to focus on changing the point of the attack, and timing of runs and passes.

1v1 Competition

Chris Johnson 342,259 Views Rating 4.2 (147 Reviews)

This drill is great to focus on 1v1 play. It is flexible and can be used to work on the offensive side or the defensive side.

Ouch!

Chris Johnson 692,197 Views Rating 4.18 (268 Reviews)

A FUN soccer drill for younger players (U6, U7, and U8) to introduce dribbling, looking up and correctly striking the ball at a target.