3v3 On Small Goals

Author picture

OR

PLAYERS:

+12

TIME:

20-30 min.

FOCUS:

Possession

AGE:

U13+

INTENSITY:

7/10

SETUP

  • Create a 30×20 meter square using four cones, and mark the middle line with two additional cones.
  • Place two small goals at each end of the area, spread across the end line.
  • Position one team at each end of the pitch, with six players on each team divided into two smaller teams of three players each.
  • Keep the waiting trios behind their own end line with a supply of balls ready, so a new team can enter immediately.
  • Have the coach positioned on the sideline with balls to start and restart play.
  • Adjust distances between cones based on the age and skill level of the players.
3v3 On Small Goals setup — a 30x20 area with a middle line, two small goals at each end and two teams of six waiting to enter

WHY USE THIS DRILL?

This 3v3 On Small Goals drill is designed to enhance players’ possession skills under pressure, emphasizing both high-pressure defending and executing effective counter-attacks. It facilitates the development of passing combinations in tight spaces, encouraging the use of the third man in play.

This drill particularly focuses on:

  • Possession Under Pressure: The tight area forces quick decisions and clean technique with an opponent always close by.
  • Movement Off the Ball: In possession, players are encouraged to constantly move to find space on the pitch, replicating a real match scenario where players actively seek free spaces.
  • Collective Attacking: To score, all players must be beyond the middle line, promoting quick passing under pressure and strategic positioning.
  • Counter-Attacking: The defending team gains an opportunity to practice counter-attacks upon winning the ball in their own half.
  • High Intensity: Rotating teams after each ball keeps the tempo up and lets every trio play at an elevated level.

HOW IT WORKS

Two teams of three start the game within the designated play area. The coach commences play by kicking the ball into the air and into the play area, or by letting one of the teams start with the ball. The objective is for the teams to collaborate and score a goal on either of the two small goals at the opposite end. For a goal to be valid, all players must cross the middle line and enter the opposition half. If any player remains behind the line, the goal is nullified and possession is handed over to the opposing team.

Following a scored goal or when the ball goes out of bounds, the two new teams enter the play area and the game resets. The team that conceded a goal or retained possession restarts the game with the ball from the backline. This rotation system ensures continuous engagement and allows all teams to actively participate in the drill.

3v3 On Small Goals — all three attackers cross the middle line before finishing into one of the small goals

OTHER KEY POINTS

  • Insist on the rule — call back any goal scored with a player still behind the middle line, so the whole team learns to push up together.
  • Encourage the defending team to press high as a unit and to break out quickly the moment they win the ball.
  • Encourage players to stay on their toes, maintaining a state of readiness to receive the ball.
  • Keep the waiting teams switched on so the next trio enters straight away and the tempo never drops.
  • The drill should be seen as inspiration. So feel free to adapt the drill to suit your team’s specific needs or focus areas.
Download 3v3 On Small Goals PDF
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