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Universal game formats
40 min
Soccer Exercise

Universal game formats

  • Age U6 - U13, U14 - U19
  • Training Set Main point

Setup

Use cones to mark a playing field with 2 goals as shown in the diagram. 2 cones mark the halfway line. 2 teams (blue and red) are formed. Each goal has a goalkeeper.

Procedure

A game is played with two teams. Team size can vary between 4-8 field players. The players receive instructions from the coach. The objective is to score goals. Variations: - Free play (unlimited touches and free positioning) - Goals only count if all players of the scoring team have advanced past the halfway line (are in the opponent's half) when the goal is scored. - Goals count double if the opposing team is not fully back defending in their own half at the time the goal is scored. - Goals also count double if the assist pass came from a wide player. - 4 vs. 4 up to 8 vs. 8 + goalkeeper. - Touch limit (1 touch, 2 touches, or only 3 touches allowed). - Goals scored directly, on the volley, or after a feint count double.

Tip

- This game format can simply serve as a final scrimmage without restrictions or as a fun game. - This game format requires, depending on the number of players and restrictions, an enormous amount of running and tactical awareness and is characterised by constant communication and interplay between both halves of the field. - Teams should be in constant motion during touch-restricted games. Players try to continuously make themselves available and offer passing options to their teammates. - Triangles should be formed regularly, and the goalkeeper or wide players should be used as passing options. - This game format develops short passing, playing in tight spaces, tackling, quick switches of play, and fast counterattacks. - Depending on the difficulty level, a 2-3 minute break should be taken after 2-4 minutes (e.g., 4 vs. 4 with one touch, where the defending team must play pressing). This game is physically very intense. - By forming 3 or 4 teams, a tournament/competitive atmosphere is created. - Small goals (5x2 metres) can also be used instead of full-size goals. - 6 cones, 2 full-size goal(s)

Training attributes

Technique

Technique
Trapping Ball control Dribbling Feinting/trick dribbling Headers Passing Shot technique/shooting

Tactics

Tactics
Wing play/Crossing Team behavior Opening the field Player behavior Transitional play (shifting the game) Games plays Man down/Man up

Condition

Condition
Speed of movement with ball Speed of movement off the ball Basic Endurance GAT Strength training Explosiveness

Co-ordination

Co-Ordination
Quick anticipation Quick processing

Training Organization

Age
U6 - U13 U14 - U19
Duration
40 min
Training Set
Main point
Goalkeeper
2 goalies
Form of Training
Individual training Team training Game Systems
Exercise level
Easy Intermediate Difficult
Training Location
Indoor Pitch