Pressure/Cover Tactical Defending Soccer Game

Chris Johnson 83,350 Views Rating 3.84 (25 Reviews)

The focus of this soccer game is to teach players recognize the first defender (closest defender to the ball) and second defenders (player covering/supporting the first defender). The drill is geared towards teaching the players how to pressure the player with the ball and proper cover positioning.

Soccer Drill Diagram: Pressure/Cover Tactical Defending Soccer Game

Tactical Defending Soccer Game, Pressure Cover Balance

The focus of this soccer game is to teach players recognize the first defender and second defenders.
Drill Setup

  1. Set up a large grid approximately 60 X 40 yards with a goal on each end lines with a keeper.
  2. Split the teams into 2 even teams
Drill Instructions

  1. Instruct the players to shout "ONE" if they are the defender closest to the player with the ball.
  2. The 2nd defender who is covering the space behind the first defender shouts "TWO" indicating they are the 2nd defender in cover position.
  3. If a player fails to shout the appropriate number, the opposing team receives a free-kick.
Drill Variations

  • N/A
Drill Coaching Points

  • Help the players recognize when they are the 1st or 2nd defenders.
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