Put Your Defence Under Pressure with This Drill

Your back line must stay composed when the opposition overloads. This two-zone game replicates repeated 3v2 breaks so defenders learn to delay, track runners, and counter to score.

Setup

Players: 5 per grid (3 attackers vs 2 defenders). When space allows, run three parallel grids across a half pitch.
Area: 25x15 m rectangle split into two equal halves with mini-goals at each end.
Equipment: Cones, two small goals, enough balls to stay continuous.

Attackers queue behind their goal. One begins with the ball, teammates stand paired with defenders in each zone.

Flow

Unmarked attacker passes to their teammate inside the first half and makes a supporting run.
Defenders try to block the lane into the attacking half. If the pass sneaks through, they must recover.
Once the ball reaches the attacking half, attackers can shoot or recycle anywhere, but still only two touches.
Defenders win by stealing and scoring in the opposite mini-goal; they can shoot from either half.
After each goal or turnover, rotate roles clockwise so everyone defends, attacks, and restarts play.

Core rules

Two-touch limit for all players (control + pass/shot).
Only one attacker may drop back into their defending half as a bounce option.
No sliding tackles; defenders must stay on their feet.
Attackers must finish from the attacking half.

Coaching focus

Attacking: Use third-man runs to combine around the defender who guards the middle line. Emphasise wall passes and disguised body shape.
Defending: First defender presses the ball, second provides cover in the passing lane—communicate constantly.
Transition: Encourage defenders to make the counter-attacking goal a target rather than smashing the ball aimlessly.

Why it works

1v1 development: Unlimited touches in the defensive half let the first attacker test dribbles while the defender works on isolation skills.
Patience: Defenders learn not to dive in because they are often outnumbered.
Finishing & composure: Attackers must strike quickly once they reach the final zone; defenders practice long-range efforts after regaining possession.

Send us your favourite adaptations (neutral players, extra mini-goals, time limits) by tagging @footballtechnik so we can share them with other coaches.