Defending Outnumbered Drill

When your defenders face a counterattack, charging wildly only opens gaps. This drill overloads them with six attackers so they must delay, communicate, and counter in a controlled way.

Setup

Players: 9 (6 attackers vs 3 defenders). Rotate roles every five minutes.
Area: Half pitch split into three zones: defensive third, central box, and attacking third.
Equipment: Two small goals for the defending team to counter into, cones to mark zones.

Attacking roles:

3 players in the build-out zone
1 connector inside the central box
2 attackers in the final third

Defenders can roam anywhere but only one may enter the central box at a time to avoid overcommitting.

Objectives & rules

Attackers are limited to two touches to speed circulation.
The central player must touch the ball before the attacking duo can shoot in the mini-goals.
Only the two high attackers may finish for the overload team.
Defenders have unlimited touches but must score in the mini-goals after winning the ball to reward organised build-out.
No sliding tackles—stay on your feet and shepherd space.

Coaching points

Use a diagonal defensive shape so one player engages the ball while partners screen passing lanes.
Constantly scan for the free attacker in the central box; shutting that route delays the whole move.
Upon winning it, defenders should find a safe first pass and attack one of the mini-goals rather than hoofing long.
Attackers must time their runs so the connector can play forward before pressure arrives.

Takeaways

Passing under pressure: Two-touch restriction forces crisp combinations from the overload team.
Field awareness: Defenders learn to track free men even while pressing the ball.
Transition habits: Scoring into mini-goals rewards defenders who counter with purpose.
Fitness & urgency: Short, intense bouts (3 x 5 minutes) keep heart rates high and decision-making sharp.

Let us know how you modify the scoring system or zone sizes by tagging @footballtechnik —we love seeing fresh twists on this drill.

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