Organization of the Four-Player Defense

• 1 goal
• Divide into 6 defenders against 5 attackers

This exercise focuses on transitioning between defending the central zone and shifting towards the flanks.

To practice this, the two players in the middle of the field pass the ball between each other and then suddenly pass it to one of the forwards. The forward immediately passes it to the wide forward. Following this, the four-player defense shifts towards the flank, and the full-back marks the wide forward.

If this is not executed correctly, the wide forward can cross the ball. Otherwise, a back pass is made, and the exercise starts over.

Coaching Points

• Emphasize proper shifting of defensive players.
• Encourage the right timing for advancing and applying pressure on the opponent (forming a defensive triangle for central attacks, covering the flank and shifting when the attack comes from the sides).
• Block passing lanes.

half field