Set Up:

Two groups of four players play 8v4 versus the third group, maintaining possession on the outside of the central zone. The defenders may leave the central zone to win the ball.  When the defenders wins possession, the player who lost the ball goes into the central zone along with his three teammates.

Particular attention is paid to the defender balancing the field, who must rotate out of the back to a covering position when necessary and close down long passes made thru defenders and over the top.  

Coaching Points:

1    Group Defending – Always pressure the ball and force the play in one direction.

2    Communication – Only send one defender to the ball. The first shout sorts it out.

3    Closing the Distance – Sprint to the ball immediately and hurry the attacker’s 1st touch.

Progressions/Regressions: 

Progression 1 - When the defenders win the ball, an attacker from each team enters the central zone to play 4v2 until they win it back.

Progression 2 – Add a neutral attacker inside of the central zone.