Funino 3v3, 4-Goal Small-Sided Game
This drill encourages players to recognize attacking opportunities by creating space, making quick decisions, and choosing the best option between two goals. Defensively, players learn to cover space effectively and transition quickly.
Funino, small-sided game, youth soccer, decision-making, attacking play
A 4-goal small-sided game designed to develop decision-making, movement, and attacking principles in a fun, game-like environment.
Drill Setup
- Field Size: 20x30 yards
- Goals: 4 small goals (two at each end, spaced apart)
- Players: 3v3 or 4v4 (adjust as needed)
- Ball Supply: Multiple soccer balls to keep play flowing
Drill Instructions
- Divide players into two teams. Each team defends two goals and attacks the other two.
- The play starts with a pass-in from the coach.
- Players score by finishing into either of the two attacking goals.
- Encourage quick transitions between attack and defense.
- No goalkeepers; all players must stay involved in the play.
- Play in 3-5 minute rounds and rotate players as needed.
Drill Variations
- Limited Touches: Restrict players to 2 or 3 touches to promote quick passing.
- Directional Play: Add a rule that players must make a pass into a specific zone before scoring.
- Conditioned Defending: Assign one player as a designated defender who cannot score.
- Time Limit: Require teams to score within a set time after gaining possession.
- Overload Play: Introduce a neutral player to create a 4v3 advantage for the attacking team.
Drill Coaching Points
- Encourage players to recognize open space and switch play quickly.
- Promote fast decision-making and attacking movement off the ball.
- Defenders should cover both goals effectively and communicate.
- Keep the game flowing with quick restarts to maximize touches.
- Emphasize teamwork and movement to create scoring opportunities.
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.
- Pugg Goal - Use Pugg or other pop-up goals that are lightweight, portable goals for small-sided games.
Drill Ages
- 4 - U4, Under 4, 4 and Under
- 5 - U5, Under 5, 5 and Under
- 6 - U6, Under 6, 6 and Under
- 7 - U7, Under 7, 7 and Under
- 8 - U8, Under 8, 8 and Under
- 9 - U9, Under 9, 9 and Under
- 10 - U10, Under 10, 10 and Under
- 11 - U11, Under 11, 11 and Under
- 12 - U12, Under 12, 12 and Under
- 13 - U13, Under 13, 13 and Under
- 14 - U14, Under 14, 14 and Under
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