1v1 Soccer Drill
1v1 Dribbling and Defensive Transition Drill: This wave-style drill focuses on improving players' dribbling technique, finishing, and defensive transition. Players dribble towards a finish zone and attempt to score, before quickly transitioning into a defender role to stop the next player. The drill emphasizes close ball control, quick decision-making, and effective 1v1 battles, with variations like using the weaker foot or limiting time in the finish zone to add challenge. Perfect for sharpening both attacking and defensive skills in a competitive, fast-paced environment.
1V1 SOCCER DRILLDRILLS
10/22/20242 min read
The Drill
Organization
Set up two small goals and a finish zone at one end of the field, with a starting point for players at the opposite end.
Players are split into two teams: blue and red.
The first player from the blue team starts by dribbling toward the finish zone and attempts to score in one of the small goals.
Once the blue player shoots (whether they score or not), they immediately become the defender.
Simultaneously, the first player from the red team begins their dribble toward the finish zone.
The blue player must chase and try to catch the red player, turning the exercise into a 1v1 as they battle to score in the finish zone.
The game repeats in a wave-like fashion, with new players alternating between attacking and defending roles.
If the defender steals the ball, they should score in the middle goal between the two teams.
Key coaching points
Dribbling Technique: Emphasize close ball control, using small touches to maintain possession while moving at speed toward the finish zone.
Win The Space Fast: Dribble faster when you have space.
Finishing: Encourage players to take quick shots with accuracy when they reach the finish zone, focusing on placement over power.
Defensive Transition: Once a player becomes a defender, they must transition quickly and press the attacker aggressively, attempting to win the ball before they can shoot.
1v1 Battles: Focus on teaching players to use body positioning and feints to beat the defender in the 1v1 scenario.
Questions
To the players:
"Are you using quick touches to keep the ball close while dribbling at speed?"
"When should you slow the speed and execute the feint?"
"When is the right time to shoot in the finish zone, and where should you aim?"
"As a defender, how quickly can you close down the attacker and win the ball?"
To the coach:
"Are players maintaining control of the ball while dribbling at speed?"
"Are they making good decisions on when to shoot or when to take on the defender?"
"Are defenders pressing quickly and forcing mistakes in the 1v1 situations?"
"Is the wave format providing enough repetition and engagement for all players?"
Progressions
Limit Time in the Finish Zone: Introduce a time limit for players in the finish zone to score, forcing them to make quicker decisions and improving their reaction speed.
Smaller or Bigger Goals (with GK)/Longer Distance: Reduce the size of the goals or increase the distance from the starting point to make it more challenging for attackers and defenders.
Limit in the Finish Zone: Allow only two-three touches (or seconds) in the finish zone, encouraging precise dribbling and shooting under pressure.
Weaker Foot (2 pt/goals): Require players to use their weaker foot to dribble and shoot, increasing their confidence and skill with both feet. You can prize them with more goals.
