Youth
3. ATTACK VS DEFENSE 8V8
Area: 1 / 2 full-size 11v11 field [ 30 mins ] Where on the field: Attacking half Players: 16 players including 2 GKs Objectives:“ Keep the attack alive”... if pressured by the opposition. if possession is, lost win the ball back quickly.
Description: 7v5 + GK half full-size field. Attacking team start with a pass to any player and try to maintain possession in opponent’ s half to create a scoring chance. [ Position specific depending on age group ] Regular rules apply... corners, goal kicks, throw-ins. Defensive team attempt to play out to target players. Attacking team attempt to win back possession quickly if ball is lost and stay in opponent’ s half.
Progressions / Variations: 1. Limit touches for certain players to improve their speed of play and decision-making 2. Limit touches for defensive players if attackers are struggling to create chances. 3. Remove a defensive mid player to gain success if needed.
Coaching Points: 1. Choose the best pass [ read the defense ] 2. Accurate and correct weight of the pass 3. Create optimum angles [ move off the ball ] 4. Can players break lines to create a scoring chance 5. If possession is lost... win it back ASAP
4. 8V8 GAME
Area: Play across full size field or on 9v9 field [ 20 mins ] Players: 2 teams 8v8 including GKs Objectives: Move the ball into opponent’ s half and maintain possession or regain possession quickly if lost... maintain offensive pressure in opponent’ s half.
Description:- 8v8 game including GKs- Play across full size field or on 9v9 field- Regular rules apply- Both teams play 1-2-3-2 formation
Progressions / Variations: Limit to 2 touches to try to improve speed of play.
Coaching Points: 1. Choose the best pass 2. Accurate and correct weight of the pass 3. Create optimum angles 4. Can players break lines to create a scoring chance 5. If possession is lost... win it back asap
2026 PRE-SEASON SOCCER JOURNAL | 17