Pressure/Cover Tactical Defending Soccer Game

TACTICAL DEFENDING SOCCER GAME, PRESSURE COVER BALANCE

Drill Equipment

Disc Cones/Markers, Scrimmage Vests, Soccer Balls, Full-Size Goal

Drill Quick Glance

Age: 9+	Field: 60X40
Players: 10	Focus: DEFENDING
Difficulty: MEDIUM	Time: 20 mins.
Goalkeeper: YES	Team
Rating: 3.82 / 5	Views: 84,736
Published: 9/14/2006	Author: Chris Johnson

This soccer drill is designed to help players identify the roles of the first defender (the closest player to the ball) and the second defender (the supporting player providing cover). It focuses on teaching players how to effectively pressure the ball handler while maintaining proper positioning for defensive support.

Drill setup

Set up a large grid approximately 60 X 40 yards with a goal on each end lines with a keeper.
Split the teams into 2 even teams of 4 with a keeper in each goal.

Drill Coaching Points

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

Drill Instructions

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

Drill Variations

Drill Focus

Defending