Five easy-to-set-up duels and a complete 60-minute training outline. See coaching questions, pitch sizes and ways to adapt each game.
One-on-one play encourages players to read the defender, protect the ball, change pace and try their own solutions. Short, purposeful duels usually create more useful involvement than long queues.
These five games need only balls, cones and small spaces. They are adaptable examples rather than a fixed programme.
Attack towards one of two cone goals placed to the left and right of the defender.
Start on a pitch of roughly 12 × 16 m. Switch roles after each short duel and restart fast.
Easier: wider goals. Harder: start the defender closer.
Receive with your back towards the goal; turn or protect the ball before breaking free.
Use around 10 × 14 m, a defender at a safe close distance, and a clear target goal.
Easier: more space. Harder: a second target goal.
Set out two colour-coded gates. The coach names a colour once the attack begins.
Attackers dribble while defenders react. Run multiple stations to avoid queues.
Easier: announce colour early. Harder: allow either goal and let attackers choose.
The attacker has a small head start; a recovering defender tries to stop the finish.
Use a short 10–15 m run towards goal; discourage unsafe tackles from behind.
Easier: more head start. Harder: reduce the start gap or change the angle.
If defenders regain possession, they can immediately attack the opposite goal.
Use one goal on each end line. Keep attempts short and rotate often.
Easier: wider goals. Harder: smaller targets and less time to decide.
| Time | Block | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 10 min | Arrival dribbling in pairs | Turns and pace changes |
| 12 min | Left-or-right duel | Read the open goal |
| 12 min | Shield then attack | Protect the ball |
| 12 min | Win it and counter | React immediately after regaining possession |
| 14 min | Free 3v3 | Use the ideas in a real game |
Total: 60 minutes. Adjust the duration, rest and space to suit your group.
Let players discover their own answers in repeated game situations.
Use the iCoachPro training editor to sketch pitch layouts and player positions, then keep the blocks together in your training plan. The application supports preparation, not the coaching decisions.
Also useful: 75-minute U10 session · Training planner · U12 weekly plan
A space around 10–16 m in width and length can be a starting point, depending on age and the objective. Adapt it based on the players.
Run several cone pitches simultaneously and rotate roles after short attacks.
Competition can help, but learning and involvement matter more than constant scorekeeping.
No. Adjust goals, starts, space and recovery for your age group.
Background: The German FA training philosophy highlights small-sided play, enjoyment and repetition. These sessions are independent, adaptable examples created for iCoachPro – not official DFB plans.
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