Drill: 4v2 Two-Zone Rondo with Transition (U12 and Up)
Drill: 4v2 Two-Zone Rondo with Transition (U12 and Up)
RONDOS
10/23/20241 min read

Drill: 4v2 Two-Zone Rondo with Transition (U12 and Up)
Organization:
Set up two adjacent 10x10 meter zones.
Play 4v2 in one zone: four players in possession and two defenders.
After completing five passes, the possession team switches the ball to the other zone.
During the transition, three of the possession players move to the other zone, while the two defenders follow to continue pressing.
If possession is lost, the player who lost the ball becomes one of the new defenders.
Objective:
Possession Team: Maintain control with a focus on forward passes and accurate switching between zones. Players should work on moving off the ball to create options.
Defending Team: Apply pressure and aim to force turnovers. If the ball is intercepted, defenders try to win possession in the current zone.
Progressions:
Two-Touch Limit: Limit players to two touches to increase the pace and demand quicker decisions.
Defender Rotation: Rotate defenders after each transition to keep energy levels high and challenge different players.
Extra Defenders on Transition: Add an extra defender on the transition to raise the challenge.
Key Coaching Points:
Forward Passing: Encourage players to look for direct passing options that allow for quick transitions.
Movement Without the Ball: Players should reposition themselves to support the ball carrier, especially during the transition.
Switch Awareness: Remind players to be aware of when and how to switch zones effectively, maintaining control of the ball.
Quick Transitioning: As soon as possession changes zones, the team should move promptly and reposition to maintain a structured attack.
Coaching Questions:
To the players:
"How can you position yourself to be ready for a forward pass?"
"What cues help you decide when to switch zones?"
"How do you create space for your teammates when moving to the new zone?"
To the coach:
"Are players moving efficiently to support the ball in the new zone?”
"Do players quickly adapt when possession changes or when transitioning?"
"Are players maintaining control under defensive pressure with forward-focused passes?"