Adult Soccer Drills (Advanced + Technical)

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Progress your game to the next level with pro soccer drills for adults or advanced players. This collection of drills is for mature players who are looking to improve their technical skills.

The drills are set out in warm-ups, game-play scenarios, zone play, and mini games. These drills used by the pros are challenging and fun.

Adult soccer players enjoying training

Adult Soccer Drills (Advanced + Technical)

Team Keepy Uppie: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Team Keepy Uppies
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Age Group: all ages
  • Number of players: 6 to 18
  • Skills learned: Heading, ball control, first touch
  • Equipment: 2 balls, 1 ball net

Drill Setup

  • There are 2 variations to this drill. 
  • Both variations require minimal space and equipment. 
Team Keepy Uppies
Team Keepy Uppies

Drill Instructions

  1. Round 1: Divide players into 2 even groups. Both groups line up across from each other, with each player approximately 2 yards apart. 
  2. All players work together for this round. 
  3. P1 starts by heading the ball to P2. Each player heads the ball to the player opposite them, gradually moving the ball to the end of the line. 
  4. The final player heads the ball into the ball net.
  5. If the ball hits the ground, the drill must be restarted. 
  6. Round 2: Divide the team into even groups. Each group has 1 ball.
  7. On the coach’s signal, the groups start playing keepy-uppies, preventing the ball from hitting the ground. 
  8. Each player is allowed 3 touches before passing to a teammate. 
  9. The team that keeps the ball in the air the longest wins. 

Drill Variations

  • Limit the number of touches before players have to pass. For elite-level players, consider playing a 1-touch round. 
  • Play a round with headers only. 

Passing Rondo: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Passing rondo
  • Session Length: 5 minutes
  • Age Group: all ages
  • Number of players: 6 to 18
  • Skills learned: Quick passing, first touch, quick feet, interceptions
  • Equipment: 1 ball (per group)

Drill Setup

  • This drill requires just 1 ball. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 6.
  • Assign 1 player per group to begin as the defender. 
  • The other players form a circle approximately 3 to 5 yards wide around the defender.
  • P1 begins the drill with the ball at their feet.
  • If you have more than 6 but less than 12 players, scale the drill to accommodate the number of players you have.
Passing Rondo
Passing Rondo

Drill Instructions

  1. P1 starts the drill by passing the ball to a teammate. 
  2. The attacking players then try to keep possession through quick passing. 
  3. Instruct attacking players to hold their general positions to maintain the circle size.
  4. D1 attempts to intercept the passes and gain possession. D1 can also press and tackle. 
  5. When D1 wins the ball, the attacking payer responsible for losing possession switches with D1.
  6. If an attacking player plays a bad pass that strays outside the circle, they must switch with D1.
  7. The process is repeated for several minutes. 

Drill Variations

  • Expand the circle size and use 2 defenders. 
  • Limit the number of touches attacking players can take. 
  • Set pass completion targets and instruct players to count consecutive passes.

Back to Goal, Spin, and Shoot: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Back to goal, spin, and shoot
  • Session Length: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Age Group: All age groups
  • Number of players: 2 to 18
  • Skills learned: Positioning, hold-up play, first touch, turning, finishing

Equipment: 1 mannequin (alternatively 1 cone or agility pole), 1 cone, 1 goal, 1 ball (minimum)

Drill Setup

  • Use the penalty box for this drill. 
  • Set up a full-size goal, even if there is no goalkeeper.
  • Place a mannequin, cone, or agility pole centrally on the edge of the penalty box. Alternatively, you can use a player to act as a defender. 
  • Place 1 cone 10 yards from the edge of the penalty box toward the center field. 
  • P1 stands with their back to the goal in front of the mannequin. 
  • The rest of the team lines up behind P2 at the outside cone. 
  • P2 starts with the ball.
Back to Goal, Spin, and Shoot
Back to Goal, Spin, and Shoot

Drill Instructions

  1. P1 starts the drill by moving around the mannequin as if it were a defender. 
  2. P1 then checks their shoulder, sprints in front of the mannequin, and pins it, while calling for the pass.
  3. P2 plays a firm, accurate pass to P1. 
  4. P1 holds off the mannequin and controls the ball. If you’re using a defender, instruct them not to tackle. They must remain passive.
  5. P1 spins around the mannequin into the penalty box, for a 1 v 1 with the goalkeeper. 
  6. P1 rejoins the end of the line. P2 takes the place of P1 for the next round. 
  7. If you have multiple goalkeepers, rotate them occasionally.

Drill Variations

  • Set up the drill on either side of the box to switch shooting angles. 
  • Focus on shooting with the weaker foot. 
  • Limit the number of touches attackers have to control the ball and spin into the box.
  • Create a competition where each attacker has 2 lives. All players can miss 2 shots. On the third miss, they are eliminated. The last player remaining is the winner.

Multiphase Attacking Possession: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Multiphase Attacking Possession 
  • Session Length: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 8 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Passing, movement, positioning, dribbling, finishing
  • Equipment: 4 cones, 1 ball, 1 goal

Drill Setup

  • Use the penalty box and surrounding area for this drill. 
  • If you have a goalkeeper, set up a full-size goal. If not, create a small goal using cones.
  • Divide the team into groups of 4. 
  • 4 attackers and 4 defenders participate at a time. 
  • The attackers form a circle outside the penalty box with the ball. 
  • 2 defenders stand inside the circle of attackers. 
  • 2 defenders wait inside the penalty box. 
Multiphase Drill
Multiphase Drill

Drill Instructions

  1. The drill starts as a passing rondo. The attackers try to complete 5 consecutive passes. 
  2. If the defenders win possession, they switch roles with the attackers. 
  3. Once a team completes 5 consecutive passes, the rondo defenders must stop trying to win the ball. 
  4. The attackers then take on the defenders inside the penalty box and try to score. They can pass, dribble, or shoot from wherever they like. 
  5. Encourage the attackers to be smart regarding their positional play, using their numerical mismatch to make space and create a high percentage of goal-scoring chances. 
  6. After each round, the attackers and defenders switch roles. 
  7. If there are more groups, rotate them after each round. 

Drill Variations

  • Limit the number of touches for attacking players. 
  • Add extra defenders to increase the difficulty for attackers. 
  • Create a competition to see which team can score the most goals. 
  • Scale this drill up or down depending on the number of available players. 

Wide Attack: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Wide Attack
  • Session Length: 5 minutes
  • Number of players: 3 to 16
  • Skills learned: Quick passing, dribbling, turning, and finishing
  • Equipment: 4 cones, 1 ball, and goalposts

Drill Setup

  • Place 1 cone on the end line 5 yards outside the penalty box. 
  • Place 1 cone 12 yards in front of the first. 
  • Place 1 cone parallel to the second cone on the edge of the penalty box. 
  • Place 1 cone in line with the third cone, around 5 yards outside the penalty box. 
  • If you have a goalkeeper, set up full-size goalposts. If you don’t have a goalkeeper, mini goalposts are okay.
Wide Attack
Wide Attack

Drill Instructions

  1. The team lines up behind the cone on the end line. 1 player stands at the second and another at the third cone.
  2. P1 starts the drill by playing a quick one-two pass with P2. 
  3. As soon as P2 plays the return pass, they turn and start to run toward the cone outside the penalty box. 
  4. P1 passes to P3. 
  5. P3 plays a first-time pass (if possible) in front of P1. 
  6. P1 receives the ball on the move, dribbles at it, then around the cone toward the goal. 
  7. P1 then dribbles into the penalty box for a 1 v 1 with the goalkeeper. 
  8. The goalkeeper may rush the attacker, come off their line, or play the scenario however they wish. This is a useful drill for goalkeepers also.
  9. If you have multiple goalkeepers in your team, rotate them each round. 
  10. After the round, P1 rejoins the main line, P3 takes the P1 spot, and P2 takes the P3 spot. 

Drill Variations

  • Create a competition between attackers and between goalkeepers for the most goals and stops. 
  • Switch the drill setup to the opposite side of the training field. 
  • Add a player to the penalty box to passively defend the attacker.

Byline Attack: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Byline Attack
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Number of players: minimum 4, optimal 8 to 16
  • Skills learned: Timing, holding off defenders, off-the-ball movement, penalty box positioning, and by-line crossing
  • Equipment: 5 cones, 1 ball, and goal posts

Drill Setup

  • Set up the drill as shown in the graphic.
  • Place 1 cone near the center of the field. 
  • Place 1 cone 5 yards in front of the first toward the goal. 
  • Place 1 cone on the edge of the penalty box, 5 yards left of center.
  • Create a 5-yard gate to the right of the penalty box in line with the edge of the area.
  • Set up goalposts (any size)
Byline Attack
Byline Attack

Drill Instructions

  1. The team lines up behind the cone at the center field. 1 attacker and 1 defender stand at the cone 5 yards from center field. 1 player stands near the sideline, parallel to the center field. 
  2. P2 starts the drill at the center field by playing a 5-year pass to P1. 
  3. P1 takes a touch to control the ball, then holds off the defender (D1) before playing a return pass to P2. 
  4. Immediately after the return pass, P1 spins the defender and makes a forward run toward the back post. 
  5. Concurrently, P3 starts their forward run along the sideline. 
  6. After receiving the return ball, P2 plays a through pass behind the gate in front of P3.
  7. P3 must time their run to ensure they don’t move through the gate until the pass from P2 is played. This simulates timing a run to beat the offside line.
  8. P3 dribbles toward the end line.
  9. When P1 reaches the cone at the edge of the penalty box, they quickly change the angle of their run and sprint toward the front post. 
  10. At the by-line, P3 crosses the ball to meet the run of P1.
  11. P1 finishes the cross inside the 6-yard box. 
  12. The main focus of this drill is timing so repeat the sequence multiple times until the players are running it smoothly.
See also  3 Players Soccer Drills (3 V.s 3 Sessions)

Drill Variations

  • Switch to the opposite side of the field. 
  • Focus initially on low crosses, then headers. 
  • Adjust the angle of the attacker’s run inside the penalty box, focusing on back post runs and cutbacks.

Dutch Style Passing: Soccer Drills

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Dutch Style Passing
  • Session Length: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Number of players: 8 to 16
  • Skills learned: Passing, receiving the ball on the move, first touch, and offensive positioning
  • Equipment: 4 to 8 cones, 2 balls, mini goal or full-size goal

Drill Setup

  • Create a 4 cone grid as shown in the graphic, with each cone positioned 10 yards apart. 
  • Set up a small goal using cones. Alternatively, you can use a full-size goal and a goalkeeper. 
  • Ensure the drill starts and finishes on the edge of the penalty box as the sequence is designed to simulate a midfield attacking move.
  • Split the team evenly into 4 groups and position each group behind the cones at the 4 corners of the grid.
Dutch Style Passing
Dutch Style Passing

Drill Instructions

  1. P1 starts the drill by playing a low, firm pass to P2. 
  2. As soon as P1 passes the ball, they run toward P3 and call for the return pass. 
  3. P2 plays a quick, first-time (if possible) return pass to P1. 
  4. While on the move, P1 receives the return pass and plays a first-time (if possible) pass to P3. 
  5. P3 takes a touch to control the ball then plays a low, firm, pass to P4.
  6. As soon as P3 passes the ball, they sprint toward the penalty box and call for the return pass. 
  7. P4 plays a threaded pass in front of P3. 
  8. P3 receives the pass on the move, dribbles into the box, and shoots on goal. 
  9. When the round finishes, P1 joins the P2 line, P2 joins the P3 line, and P3 joins the P4 line.

Drill Variations

  • Switch the drill to the opposite side of the training field.
  • Run the drill using one-touch passes only.

Double Movement Finishing: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Double movement finishing
  • Session Length: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 3 to 18
  • Skills learned: First touch, shooting, finishing from a cross, crossing, movement
  • Equipment: 1 mannequin (alternatively 1 cone or agility pole), 3 cone, 1 goal, 2 balls (minimum)

Drill Setup

  • Use the penalty box for this drill. 
  • Set up a full-size goal, even if there is no goalkeeper.
  • Place a mannequin, cone, or agility pole centrally on the penalty spot inside the box. 
  • Place 1 cone 5 yards outside the penalty box. 
  • Place 1 cone next to the goal on the end line. 
  • Place 1 cone between the right-hand sideline and the edge of the penalty box.
  • P2 stands next to the cone on the end line with a ball. 
  • P3 stands next to the cone near the sideline with a ball.
  • P1 and the rest of the players line up behind the cone outside the penalty box. 
Double Movement Finishing
Double Movement Finishing

Drill Instructions

  1. P2 starts the drill by passing the ball to P1. 
  2. P1 takes one touch to control the pass before taking a shot on goal. 
  3. P1 then makes a dummy run to the left side of the mannequin as if they are heading for the back post. When P1 reaches the mannequin, they quickly check their run, sprinting to the other side toward the front post.
  4. P3 crosses the ball to P1.
  5. P1 finishes the ball with a header, volley, or regular shot. Instruct the attackers to try to finish first-time. 
  6. P1 rejoins the end of the attacking line. 
  7. Rotate the passer and crosser occasionally.

Drill Variations

  • Switch the passing and crossing positions to the opposite side. 
  • Instruct strikers to shoot first-time on all shots.
  • Change the starting position of the strikers for different shooting angles.
  • Change the angle of the runs toward the back post. 
  • Focus on weak foot shooting.

Split the Defense Finishing: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Split the defense finishing
  • Session Length: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 3 to 18
  • Skills learned: Movement, positioning, first touch, finishing
  • Equipment: 1 mannequin (alternatively 1 cone or agility pole), 3 cone, 1 goal, 1 balls (minimum)

Drill Setup

  • Use the penalty box for this drill. 
  • Set up a full-size goal, even if there is no goalkeeper.
  • Place a mannequin, cone, or agility pole centrally on the edge of the penalty box. 
  • Place 1 cone 5 yards outside the penalty box.
  • Create a 5-yard passing gate to the right of the mannequin using 2 cones.
  • P1 stands next to the mannequin.
  • P2 and the rest of the players line up behind the cone outside the box.
  • P2 starts with the ball.
Split The Defense Finishing
Split The Defense Finishing

Drill Instructions

  1. P1 starts the drill by moving around the mannequin as if it were a defender. 
  2. P1 then sprints in front of the mannequin to receive a pass.
  3. P2 plays a quick one-two return pass to P1. 
  4. After playing the return pass, P1 backs away toward the 2 cone grid while still facing P2.
  5. This movement simulates splitting 2 defenders in the back line. 
  6. P2 plays a pass to P1’s feet. 
  7. P1 takes a touch into the penalty box for a 1 v 1 with the goalkeeper.
  8. P1 joins the end of the passing line. 
  9. P2 takes P1’s position. 
  10. Repeat the drill. 

Drill Variations

  • Switch the drill to the opposite side to practice different shooting angles.
  • Create a competition where each attacker has 2 lives. All players can miss 2 shots. On the third miss, they are eliminated. The last player remaining is the winner.

6 Yard Headers On Goal: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 6 Yard Headers On Goal
  • Session Length: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Age Group: All age groups (according to health recommendations in your area)
  • Number of players: 3 to 18
  • Skills learned: Powerful, accurate, and diving headers
  • Equipment: 1 ball (minimum), 3 cones, 1 goal

Drill Setup

  • If you have a goalkeeper, set up a full-size goal. If not, create a small goal using cones.
  • The penalty box is a perfect space to run this drill. 
  • Place 1 cone centrally at the edge of the penalty box. 
  • Place 1 cone 5 yards to the left of the penalty spot. 
  • Place 1 cone a couple of yards to the right of the six-yard box. 
  • P1 stands at the cone on the edge of the box. The rest of the team lines up behind them.
  • P2 stands at the cone near the six-yard box. 
6 Yard Headers On Goal
6 Yard Headers On Goal

Drill Instructions

  1. P1 runs toward the cone to their left, simulating a back post run. 
  2. Once they reach the cone, P1 quickly changes direction and sprints centrally toward the six-yard box. 
  3. P2 throws the ball in front of P1.
  4. P1 times the flight of the ball and heads it at the goal. 
  5. Depending on the trajectory of the pass, P1 may have to jump or dive to make good contact. 
  6. The focus should be on making good contact with the ball and executing powerful and accurate headers on goal. 
  7. The goalkeeper does not try to intercept the pass but they can try to save the shots.
  8. Rotate the thrower occasionally.

Drill Variations

  • Adjust the position of the cone inside the box, alternating dummy runs.
  • Focus on headers from different positions, including the front post, back post, and centrally.
  • Focus on diving headers for a round.

Pass, Dummy, & Shoot: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Pass, Dummy, & Shoot
  • Session Length: 5 to 10 minutes
  • Age Group: all ages
  • Number of players: 4 to 16
  • Skills learned: Passing, moving, dummying, finishing
  • Equipment: 1 ball, 1 goal, 3 cones

Drill Setup

  • Use the penalty box and the surrounding area for this drill. 
  • Set up a full-size goal if you have a goalkeeper. If not, a small goal or pair of cones will suffice.
  • Place 1 cone central, 5 to 10 yards outside the penalty box. 
  • Place 1 cone 5 yards to the right of the first.
  • Place 1 cone next to the left corner of the penalty box. 
  • Divide the outfield players into 3 even groups. 
  • Each group lines up at a different cone. 
  • P1 begins with the ball at their feet at the center cone. 
Pass Dummy Shoot
Pass Dummy Shoot

Drill Instructions

  1. On the coach’s signal, P1 plays a give-and-go pass to P2. After playing the pass, they run toward the goal, calling for the return. 
  2. At the same time, P3 makes a run toward the right side of the penalty box, aligning their position with P1. 
  3. P2 plays a firm return pass toward P1. 
  4. P1 acts as if they are going to take a touch or shoot. At the last second, they dummy the ball, letting it run past them, into the path of P3. 
  5. P3 takes a touch and finishes or shoots the first time. 
  6. Instruct players to make firm and accurate passes to ensure the drill runs smoothly. 
  7. P1 can let the run pass in front of them, behind them, or through their legs. 
  8. After completing the round, all outfield players join different lines. The next 3 players start the second round. 

Drill Variations

  • Switch the drill to the opposite side.
  • Set goal-scoring targets for the team. 
  • Focus on shooting with the left and right feet. 

Man-On Drill: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Man-On Drill
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Age Group: 7+
  • Number of players: 3 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: First touch, turning, holding off the defender, shielding the ball, finishing
  • Equipment: 1 ball (minimum), 3 cones, 1 goal (optional)

Drill Setup

  • Set up a 5-yard, 2-cone gate along the edge of the penalty box.
  • Place 1 cone 10 yards from the gate toward the center of the field. 
  • If you have a goalkeeper, consider setting up a goal to include shooting practice as a secondary aspect of the drill. 
  • P2 (attacker) and D1 (defender) begin at the passing gate. 
  • P1 and the remaining players line up behind the cone toward centerfield. 
  • P1 begins with the ball at their feet. 
Man On Drill
Man On Drill

Drill Instructions

  1. P2 moves around the edge of the penalty box simulating an in-game scenario. 
  2. P2 shakes off the defender, sprints through the gate, and calls for the ball. 
  3. P1 plays a low, hard pass to P2.
  4. P2 takes a good first touch, holds off the defender, then spins toward the goal. If there is a goalkeeper, P2 takes a shot on goal.
  5. D1 doesn’t actively try to win the ball. Instead, they apply pressure, allowing P2 to practice taking a solid first touch when surrounded by defenders. 
  6. When the round is over, P2 joins the end of the passing line, D1 takes P2’s place, and P1 takes D1’s place.
  7. If you have 7 or more outfield players, consider setting up 2 identical grids and running the drills concurrently. 
See also  Soccer Drills & Games For 10-Year-Olds (What's Best)

Drill Variations

  • Instruct players to focus on different types of touches in each round. 
  • For 1 round, focus on taking 1 touch, and spinning behind the defender toward the goal.
  • For another round, focus on taking a good touch, facing up the defender, and running past them before shooting. 
  • For another round, instruct P2 to play a give-and-go pass with P1, before running behind the defender for a through pass from P1. 
  • For advanced players, encourage them to work on different skill moves, touches, flicks, and turns. 

One-Touch Passing and Shooting: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: One-touch passing and shooting
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 3 to 18
  • Skills learned: One touch passing, first touch, crossing, first time finishing
  • Equipment: 1 ball, 3 cones, 1 goal

Drill Setup

  • Use the penalty box and the width of the training field for this drill. 
  • Set up a full-size goal. If you have a goalkeeper, this drill can double as saving practice. 
  • Place 1 cone centrally, approximately 5 yards outside of the penalty box. 
  • Place 2 more cones next to either sideline, in line with the first cone.
  • Divide the team into groups of 3. Each group lines up behind a cone. 
  • P1 begins at the central cone with the ball at their feet. 
One Touch Passing and Shooting
One Touch Passing and Shooting

Drill Instructions

  1. P1 starts the drill by playing a long pass to P2. 
  2. As soon as the first pass is played, P3 starts to run toward the box. 
  3. P2 takes a good first touch toward the endline or penalty box. 
  4. P2 times the run of P3 and crosses the ball to them, aiming for their feet or head. 
  5. P3 shoots or heads the ball first time on goal. 
  6. If you have a goalkeeper, instruct them not to compete for the crosses. They should only attempt to save the shots. 
  7. After the round, P1 joins P2’s line, P2 joins P3’s line, and P3 joins P1’s line.

Drill Variations

  • Switch the crossing angle to the opposite side of the field. 
  • Set scoring targets for the team. 
  • Instruct P1 to vary the height of their initial passes so P2 and P3 can practice their first touch and ball control with their feet, knees, and chest. 

Progressive Passing Drill: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Progressive passing drill
  • Session Length: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 10 to 12
  • Skills learned: Passing, movement, awareness, 
  • Equipment: 6 cones, 1 ball

Drill Setup

  • Create a 20-yard, 4-cone square grid. Split the grid into 2 sections using 2 more cones.
  • Elect 8 players to perform as attackers, and 2 as defenders. 
  • P1 and P2 stand outside the grid on one end, with P3 and P4 outside the grid on the other end. 
  • P5 and P6 begin inside the grid on one side, with P7 and P8 on the other side. 
  • D1 occupies the same space as P5 and P6. D2 occupies the same space as P7 and P8.
Progressive Passing Drill
Progressive Passing Drill

Drill Instructions

  • Throughout this drill, all players must stay in their designated spaces.
  • Players cannot pass the ball through any section. The ball must travel through each individual section to score. 
  • On the coach’s signal, P1 starts by playing the ball to P5 or P6. 
  • P5 and P6 work together to play the ball into the next section to P7 and P8. They can play the ball back to P1 and P2 to recycle possession.
  • When P7 and P8 receive possession, they work together to play the ball to P3 and P4. They can play the ball back to P5 and P6, but not back to P1 and P2.
  • D1 and D2 (in black) tackle, block, and try to regain possession. 
  • If the defenders win back the ball, the attackers must restart with P1 and P2. 
  • Each time the attackers successfully play the ball from one side to the other, they score a point. 
  • Run the drill for 2 to 3 minutes then rotate player roles. 

Drill Variations

  • Add an extra defender to both center sections. 
  • Create competition by tracking how many points each group scores. 
  • Reduce or increase the size of the grid to accommodate players’ skill levels. 
  • Limit the number of touches per player inside the grid. 
  • If attacking players are struggling, instruct the defenders to play passively with no tackling. 
  • This drill is designed for 10 to 12 players but it can be scaled up or down depending on numbers. Consider increasing the size of the grid if you have a large training squad. 

Channel Possession: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Channel Possession
  • Session Length: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Age Group: 12+
  • Number of players: 10 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Passing, movement, positioning, counter attacking 
  • Equipment: 10 cones, 1 ball, 2 goals 

Drill Setup

  • Use approximately half the length and the full width of the field for this drill. 
  • Extend the penalty box lines by placing cones all the way from the edge of the penalty box to the halfway line (or end of the playing field). This creates 3 separate sections (1 left, 1 center, and 1 right).
  • Set up 2 goals. If you have goalkeepers, use full-size goals. If not, small goals are fine.
  • Divide the team into groups of 5 outfield players. 
  • 5 attackers and 5 defenders occupy either end of the field. 
  • If you have goalkeepers, assign 1 goalkeeper to each team.
Channel Possession
Channel Possession

Drill Instructions

  1. The objective of this drill is to score against the opposition. However, the attacking team can only score if they have at least 1 player in every section. This encourages players to create space and use the entire width of the field. 
  2. The defending team must stay in the center section. 
  3. Encourage attacking players to switch the play where possible, creating space on the wings. Attackers can rotate positions freely. 
  4. If the defenders win possession, they are now the attacking team. They should counterattack quickly to score while the opposition is out of position. However, they must adopt the same rules, meaning they must have at least 1 player in every section to score. 
  5. The first team to score 3 goals wins. 

Drill Variations

  • Scale this drill up or down depending on the number of available players. 
  • Set time limits to score when teams are in possession. 
  • Set a minimum number of consecutive passes before a team can score. 

Piggy In The Middle: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: Piggy In The Middle
  • Session Length: 5 minutes
  • Age Group: All age groups
  • Number of players: 9 to 18
  • Skills learned: Passing, movement, positioning, blocking 
  • Equipment: 8 cones, 1 ball

Drill Setup

  • Create a 10-yard, 4-cone square grid. 
  • Split the grid into 3 even sections using the remainder of the cones. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 3. 
  • 3 groups participate at a time. 
  • 2 groups are designated as attackers, occupying the sections on either end of the grid. 
  • 1 group is designated as the defender and occupies the middle section. 
  • The attackers begin with the ball. 
Piggy In The Middle
Piggy In The Middle

Drill Instructions

  1. The objective of this drill is for the attackers to successfully pass the ball from one side of the grid to the other. However, all players must stay inside the section they are assigned to.
  2. Each trio of attackers can play a maximum of 3 consecutive passes inside their section before they must attempt to switch play to the opposite side. 
  3. If the defensive group wins possession, they switch with the group at fault. 
  4. If an attacking player misplaces a pass outside of the grid, their team must switch with the defensive group. 
  5. The team that successfully switches the play on 5 consecutive occasions is the winner. 

Drill Variations

  • Create a competition to see which group can win 3 separate games. 
  • Limit the number of touches per player. 
  • Set a time limit for players to keep the ball inside their section. 
  • Allow 1 defender to enter either attacking grid while that group is in possession.

2 v 2 Shooting & Defending: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 2 v 2 Shooting & Defending
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 8 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Passing, dribbling, finishing, tackling, awareness 
  • Equipment: 6 cones, multiple balls, 2 goals

Drill Setup

  • You can use the penalty box for this drill. Alternatively, create a 4-cone square grid. 
  • Place 1 cone in the center of 1 side of the grid. Place 1 cone on the center of the side to the right of the first. 
  • Set up 2 goals along the lines opposite each cone. If you have goalkeepers, set up full-size goals and use this drill as goalkeeping practice. 
  • Divide the team into pairs. 
  • Instruct the pairs to line up behind the cones (even groups at each).
  • P1 and P2 begin with the ball.
2 v 2 Shooting and Defending
2 v 2 Shooting and Defending

Drill Instructions

  1. On the coach’s signal, P1 and P2 attack the goal opposite to them. 
  2. P3 and P4 defend them. 
  3. The round is over if the attackers get a shot off or if the defenders win the ball. 
  4. P3 and P4 join the end of the opposite line. 
  5. P1 and P2 are now the defenders.
  6. As soon as the round is over, P5 and P6 attack the goal opposite to them.
  7. P1 and P2 attempt to stop them. 
  8. When the round is over, P1 and P2 join the end of the opposite line. 
  9. P5 and P6 are now the defenders. 
  10. As soon as the round is over, P7 and P8 attack the goal opposite to them. 
  11. Repeat the drill for several minutes.

Drill Variations

  • Set a scoring time limit.
  • Create a minimum passes rule, forcing players to make a certain number of passes before they can shoot. 
  • Create competition by counting the number of goals each team scores. 
  • If the drill is becoming congested, increase the size of the grid.

4v4 to Mini-Goals (no GK): Soccer Drill

  • Age Range: 4-10
  • Length of Session: 3 min games, up to 15 mins
  • Number of Players: 6,8,10
  • Skills to Learn: game decisions, passing vs. dribbling, 1v1 situations
  • Equipment: regular cones, mini-goals/pug goals or large cones, pinnies, or different colored shirts. 

Description: Allow kids to compete in 4v4 small-sided games up to 3 mins long. 

Drill Set-up:

  • Set up the field based on the age of players. For younger players, 4-6, make a field about 15x 20 meters. For older groups, make the field a bit larger. 
  • Set up multiple fields if you have a large group. 
  • Use cones to create the outline of the field. 
  • Set up either mini-goals, pugg goals, or large cones as the goals. 
  • Split the players into even teams of 4, and give each team a color. 
See also  Overlap Runs Soccer Drills (Looking Up)
4v4 Mini Goals Soccer Drill SoccerBlade.com
4v4 Mini Goals Soccer Drill SoccerBlade.com

Drill Instructions:

  1. Play 3 min games to the mini-goals. 
  2. Define how players earn points. You can create unique rules to shift the focus and practice different things. For example, you could make a 1-touch finish worth 2 points for older kids. 
  3. Keep the simple focus for kids 4-6, emphasizing taking the ball from the other team but not your team. Also, guide them to stay spread out and communicate. 
  4. For older kids, emphasize decision-making between passing and dribbling. 
  5. You can also use larger goals and add a GK for older kids, ages 9-10.

3 v 3 Quick Rotations: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 3 v 3 Quick Rotations
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Age Group: All age groups
  • Number of players: 9 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Transitional defending, quick attacking, passing, movement
  • Equipment: 6 cones, 2 mini goals, 1 ball

Drill Setup

  • Create a 20-yard long, 10-yard wide, cone grid as your playing field. 
  • Set up 2 mini goals, with one on either end of the field. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 3. 
  • 2 groups compete against each other at a time. 
  • The other groups wait in line outside the playing grid.
  • Designate 1 team as the attackers and 1 as the defenders. 
3 v 3 Quick Rotations
3 v 3 Quick Rotations

Drill Instructions

  1. On the coach’s signal, the attacking team tries to score on their opponents, using quick passing, movement, and dribbling. 
  2. The defenders try to stop them from scoring and attempt to win possession. 
  3. As soon as the ball is turned over, the defenders become the attackers. 
  4. The next group in line quickly enters the playing field to defend against the attack.
  5. The previous attackers leave the field and wait for their turn to play again. 
  6. All players on the sideline must pay attention to the live game, ensuring they get into their defensive positions as quickly as possible. 
  7. The drill recycles naturally, round after round. 
  8. Coaches should stop playing occasionally to offer players instructions or advice.  

Drill Variations

  • Set a scoring time limit for the team in possession
  • Limit individual touches to 2 or 3 per possession. 
  • Mark a small area next to each goal. Players can only score from inside this zone. 
  • Set scoring targets for attackers. 

4 v 4 Wing Play: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 4 v 4 Wing Play
  • Session Length: 10 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 8 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Positioning, passing, movement, awareness
  • Equipment: 12 cones, 1 ball, 2 goals

Drill Setup

  • Create a 20-yard long, 15-yard wide, cone grid as your playing field. 
  • Create a channel, 3 yards wide, on either sideline using cones. 
  • Set up 2 goals, placing 1 on either end of the field. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 4. 
  • 2 groups compete against each other at a time. 
  • Each group designates 1 player to occupy their right-sided channel. No other players are allowed to enter the sideline channels. 
4 v 4 Wing Play
4 v 4 Wing Play

Drill Instructions

  1. The coach elects 1 team to start with the ball. 
  2. On the coach’s signal, the drill goes live. The teams compete in a regular 4 v 4 game, with each team trying to outscore the other. 
  3. The designated channel players can move along the sideline but they cannot leave the channel. 
  4. The other players may not enter the sideline channels. 
  5. The teams are encouraged to use their wingers to set up attacks, creating overloads and crossing opportunities from wide areas. 
  6. The first team to score 3 goals is the winner. 
  7. Mix up teams after each game. 
  8. If you have enough players, create multiple teams and rotate them between games. 

Drill Variations

  • Switch wingers to the opposite side, focusing on attacking from the left sideline.
  • Introduce a rule, forcing teams to pass to their winger at least once before they are allowed to score. 
  • Set a minimum pass rule before teams can score. 
  • Limit individual touches to 2 or 3 per possession. 
  • Set a scoring time limit for attacking teams.

4 Goal, 3 V 3: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 4 Goal, 3 V 3 
  • Session Length: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Age Group: 12+
  • Number of players: 6 to 18
  • Skills learned: Range of passing, movement, first touch, and interceptions 
  • Equipment: 4 goals, 1 ball 

Drill Setup

  • Use a quarter of the training field for this drill.
  • Set up 2 small goals on one end of the field and 2 small goals on the other.
  • Position the goals next to the sidelines.
  • The goals should be approximately 5 yards wide. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 3.
4 Goal 3 v 3
4 Goal 3 v 3

Drill Instructions

  1. This drill is essentially a 3 v 3 game but each team can score 2 different goals.
  2. The focus of the drill is on different ranges of passing, teamwork, movement, and positioning. 
  3. When in possession, a player has a maximum of 3 touches (including a pass).
  4. The defending team may not tackle. They can intercept or block passes to gain possession.
  5. As the goals are small, players are encouraged to get as close to the goal as possible before shooting. 
  6. The first team to score 3 goals wins. 
  7. The winning team stays on to compete against the next group.

Drill Variations

  • Limit the number of touches to 2 or 1. If the players struggle, increase the number of permitted touches until they start to improve. 
  • Increase the number of players per team. 
  • Allow tackling. 
  • Introduce a minimum number of passes before a team is allowed to score.

4 v 4 End Line Playmaking: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 4 v 4 End Line Playmaking
  • Session Length: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 8 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Positioning, give-and-go passing, movement, finishing
  • Equipment: 6 cones, 1 ball, 4 mini goals

Drill Setup

  • Create a 20-yard long, 15-yard wide, cone grid as your playing field. 
  • Place 2 goals near the corner flags on either end of the field. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 4. 
  • 2 groups compete against each other at a time. 
  • Each group must elect 1 player to stand between the opposition’s goal posts along the end line. The rest of the players are free to move around as they please. 
  • The coach chooses a team to start in possession.
4 v 4 End Line Playmaker
4 v 4 End Line Playmaker

Drill Instructions

  1. On the coach’s signal, the game goes live and the teams compete in a regular 4 v 4 game.
  2. The goal of the drill is to outscore the opposition. 
  3. The players standing between the posts can move along the end-line but may not move onto the field or past the goalposts. They are not allowed to score.
  4. A team may only score if they play 2 passes through their end-line player in a single possession. The passes don’t have to be consecutive. 
  5. Encourage players to make give-and-go passes and create patient buildup play, simulating real game scenarios. 
  6. The first team to score 5 goals is the winner. 
  7. Mix up teams after each game. 
  8. If you have enough players, create multiple teams and rotate them between games. 

Drill Variations

  • Create a tournament if you have enough players.
  • Set a minimum pass to rule before teams can score. 
  • Limit individual touches to 2 per possession. 
  • Consider increasing the mandatory number of passes to the end-line players before a team can score. 

4-Goal 4 v 4: Soccer Drill

Drill Outline

  • Drill Name: 4-Goal 4 v 4
  • Session Length: 10 to 15 minutes
  • Age Group: 10+
  • Number of players: 8 (minimum)
  • Skills learned: Switching the play, range of passing, positioning, tackling, communication.
  • Equipment: 6 cones, 1 ball, 4 mini goals

Drill Setup

  • Create a 20-yard long, 30-yard wide, cone grid as your playing field. 
  • Set up 3 mini goals along both end lines with an equal distance between each. 
  • Divide the team into groups of 4. 
  • 2 groups compete against each other at a time. 
  • Each team lines up in front of their end line. 
  • The coach begins with the ball.
4 Goal 4 v 4
4 Goal 4 v 4

Drill Instructions

  1. To start the drill, the coach kicks the ball onto the field. The coach can choose to play the ball into space, between 2 players, or in the air. 
  2. Both teams must react quickly to compete for possession. Once the game is live, the teams compete in a regular 4 v 4 game, trying to outscore each other. However, each team can score into 1 of 4 goals.
  3. The idea of this drill is for teams to use the full width of the field, switching the play and creating space using movement and clever positioning.
  4. The first team to score 5 goals is the winner. 
  5. Rotate groups between games or mix players to allow different teammates to work together. 

Drill Variations

  • Since the idea of this drill is to exploit space in wide areas, setting a minimum number of passes rule can be counterproductive. Instead, consider making a rule prohibiting teams from scoring the same goal on 2 consecutive plays.
  • Limit individual touches to 2 per possession.
  • Create a tournament if you have enough players.
  • For advanced players, consider increasing the width of the field.

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Soccer Analyst and Publisher at Soccer Blade | Soccer Blade | + posts

Joel is a seasoned soccer journalist and analyst with many years of experience in the field. Joel specializes in game analysis, player profiles, transfer news, and has a keen eye for the tactical nuances of the game. He played at various levels in the game and coached teams - he is happy to share his insight with you.

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