Activity

Field Setup Establish a playing grid composed of two adjacent boxes, tailored to challenge the players’ technical abilities and match the desired level of difficulty. The smaller the playing area, the more challenging it will be for players in possession.

Teams Form a team of four players, starting with three in one box and the fourth player positioned at the far end of the adjacent box. One defender starts in the box with the three players.

How To Play The three players aim to complete a minimum of three passes among themselves before playing the ball to their teammate in the other box. Upon the successful pass, the two wide players on the side slide down to the new box to create another 3v1 rondo situation. If you are playing 4v1+1 then the other player closest to the other box turns around to make up the 4 players.

Coaching Principles 

This activity enhances players’ ability to switch play to areas with less pressure, secure possession away from defenders, and quickly transition to support a teammate who has received the ball. It teaches spatial awareness, decision-making, and dynamic support in a fluid playing environment.

Coaching Points

• Switching Play: Encourage players to recognize when to switch play and how to execute it effectively, looking for moments to transition the ball to spaces with less defensive pressure.

• Securing the Ball: Teach players to secure the ball by moving it away from pressured areas to teammates who have more time and space, thereby improving control over the game’s tempo.

• Quick Support: Instruct players on the importance of quick transitions to support the player receiving the ball in the new box, emphasizing the need for immediate movement to provide passing options.

Variations & Progressions

• Increased Passing Requirement: Demand a higher number of passes before allowing the ball to be switched to the other box, enhancing players’ ability to maintain possession under pressure.

• One-Touch Play: Introduce the requirement for one-touch passes when switching play, which sharpens first-touch skills and accelerates the tempo of the game.