Instructions
Set up a 40x30 yard area with a full-size goal and goalkeeper at one end, plus small goals placed outside the area on both flanks (for the in-possession team to score in).
Divide players into two teams: one starts in possession with the goalkeeper, defenders, and central midfielders; the other team acts as pressers.
The in-possession team begins play from the goalkeeper and aims to build through central areas while using full-backs for width.
Objective: progress the ball and score in one of the outside small goals.
The pressing team tries to win the ball high and score quickly in the main goal.
Play is continuous with immediate transitions when possession changes.
Focus Points
Central midfielders must constantly adjust position and movement to open passing lanes and offer options.
Full-backs should push high and wide early to stretch the press and create space centrally.
Emphasise sharp, one- or two-touch passing to maintain tempo and avoid being caught in possession.
Players must scan constantly before receiving to identify pressure, open teammates, and space to exploit.
Look for triggers to switch play quickly (e.g., when one side is overloaded) to unbalance the opposition.
Goalkeeper should be comfortable with feet and make early decisions on distribution.
Defenders need to receive on the half-turn and use body positioning to protect the ball.
Encourage calm decision-making under pressure rather than forcing risky long balls.
Progressions
Limit touches (e.g., 2-touch max) in the defensive third to increase speed and realism of build-up under pressure.
Add a +1 pressing player (e.g., extra forward joins the press) to overload the build-up.
Reduce the pitch width or depth to make space tighter and demand quicker decisions.
Remove the outside goals and make the target the main goal to encourage longer possession sequences.
Introduce a 5-second count for the pressing team to win the ball back, rewarding high-intensity pressing.
Add neutral players in midfield to help the in-possession team practice under varied pressure.
Four Corner Model
Technical / Tactical
Ball control, Passing accuracy, First touch, Creating passing angles, Spatial awareness, Press resistance
Psychological
Patience, Decision-making under pressure, Confidence on the ball, Concentration
Physical
Agility, Quick feet, Body positioning, Balance
Social
Communication, Teamwork, Support play, Trust in teammates
Principles of Play
In Possession
Penetration
Create Space
Movement
Support
Creativity
Out of Possession
Press
Delay
Cover & Balance
Compactness
