This week on the MSC Breakdown , we look at how coaches could shape a full team practice with an emphasis on defending high up the pitch. The session is aimed at the younger age groups (U12-U10) where players are being introduced to team concepts and learning how to work together in order to defend as a unit. The objectives for this particular session are for players to experience pressing moments against build-up situations. Reading the game and decision-making are important skills for young players to learn when they do not have possession of the ball. These exercises are designed to teach these skills, but also let players enjoy high levels of flow and competition throughout the session. If you enjoy the exercises and would like more youth defending ideas, please check out the MSC 20 Youth Defending Exercises eBook here.
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You can find details and dimensions below:
2v3 Central Pressing Game
Players are organized into two teams and one goalkeeper
Game takes place inside. a10x20 yard area inside the penalty box, with two mini-goals at the top
The pitch is split in half
Game starts with a pass from the goalkeeper into two blue attackers
At the same time, two red players go to press
Blue players are looking to score in the mini-goals
Red players are looking to win possession and score in the central goal
If a goal is scored as a result of the ball being won inside the pressing zone, it counts double
Play 6x3 minute games and switch roles after each game
1v1 Wide Pressing Game
Players are organized into two teams and two goalkeepers
Two fields are used approximately 15x25 yards
Exercise starts with a 1 v 1 and begins with a pass from the goalkeeper. As soon as the pass is played, the pressing player (in red) runs out and tries to win the ball and counterattack on the standard goal.
Attacking player (in blue) scores one point for a pass into the mini-goal and two points if they dribble over the 'Dribble Line'
Play 4x5 minute games and players switch roles with their teammates after each round.
5v5 High Pressing Game
Players are organized into two teams, including a goalkeeper.
The exercise takes place inside a 20x30 yard area with five gates located in each corner and the center of the pitch.
Both teams are playing under the same conditions and the possession team can score in two ways:
Firstly, a goal scored in a full-sized goal is worth two points.
Secondly, a successful pass or individual dribble through any one of the five gates in worth one point.
This incentivizes the defensive team to apply aggressive pressure in the wide areas, as well as preventing the opponents from switching the point of attack.
Play 3x6 minute games and keep score throughout
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