4v4 Soccer to a Small Gate
In Soccer, 4v4 is the smallest version of a full-sided game. While on the attack, to be successful in a four vs. four soccer match, players must penetrate via the pass, dribble, or shot; players must provide support to the player with the ball, and players need to create width to the field. On the defensive side, a player must pressure the ball to delay the attack, another player should cover for the player pressuring the ball, and the remaining two players balance the field of play. This 4v4 practice focuses on all aspects of the match, including attacking, defending, passing, receiving, supporting, penetrating, and spreading the field.
4v4 soccer drill, 4vs4 to a small gate
4v4 in soccer is the smallest game focusing on all aspects of a full sided soccer match.
Drill Setup
- To set up this 4v4 soccer drill, create a grid that is approximately 40 X 25 yards. Create multiple fields if possible to include more players.
- Create a gate (about 8 feet wide) on each end line.
- Divide the group into two teams of four players each.
- Since the field is longer than it is wide, the playing field's dimensions emphasize passing in the game. There is a premium on playing the ball forward early.
Drill Instructions
- Each team defends a small gate.
- A goal is scored by stopping the ball inside the gate along the end line.
- When a team reaches 5 goals switch out players or teams.
Drill Variations
- Alternatively, create an end line with cones for the players to attack. A goal is scored by stopping the ball anywhere along the endline.
- Depending on the age and skill level of the players, you can adjust the field size to maximize the effectiveness of the workout.
Drill Coaching Points
Offensively:
- Vision - players should be able to look up and read the game with their eyes since their number is limited. Player's heads should be on a constant pivot.
- Communication - make sure players are communicating both verbally and non-verbally.
- Support - make sure players are using the entire playing area (width and length) to get into the right supporting angles. Create passing options that allow the receiving players the most time and space.
- Appropriate use of 1st touch
- Appropriate use of short or long passing
- Changes in the direction and speed of play
- Create goal scoring opportunities
Defensively:
- Sound Defensive Principles - pressure, cover, balance
- Get as many people behind the ball as possible
- Good communication
Equipment
- Disc Cones - Mini or Full-Size Disc Cones are a critical piece of equipment that every soccer coach must have in your equipment bag.
- 9" Tall Soccer Cones - Add 9" Tall Soccer Cones to your equipment bag as they make excellent agility and fitness cones, field border markers, or utilized in soccer training.
- Scrimmage Pinnies/Vests - Scrimmage vests, also called bibs or pinnies, are also another must-have in your soccer coaching equipment bag.
- Soccer Practice or Training Balls - Every player should have a soccer balls at practice to have a successful training session.
- Pugg Goal - Pugg Goal or Mini Soccer Goal
- Training Sticks - Training Sticks or Agility Poles
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
- 15 - U15, Under 15, 15 and Under
- 16 - U16, Under 16, 16 and Under
- 17 + - U17, U18, U19, U20, and Older
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