7v7+2 Possession Drill

PLAYERS:

+16

TIME:

25 min.

FOCUS:

Possession

AGE:

U13+

INTENSITY:

7/10

SETUP

Mark out a grid with 4 cones, around 20×30 meters (10-20 meters wide and 20-30 meters long).
Divide the players into two teams of 7 and spread them out inside the grid. Use bibs to separate the teams.
Place one neutral player just outside each end line, in the middle of the grid’s width.
Keep a supply of balls behind each end line so the game can restart quickly.
Adjust distances between cones based on the age and skill level of the players.Adjust distances between cones based on the age and skill level of the players.

WHY USE THIS DRILL?

The 7v7+2 Possession Drill makes keeping the ball purposeful. Because a point only counts when the ball travels from one end of the grid to the other, players can’t just circulate it safely on one side. They have to find the switch, open passing angles and move the ball with purpose through a crowded middle. The neutrals give the team in possession an outlet under pressure, while the immediate press after losing the ball keeps the tempo high.

This drill particularly focuses on:

Passing and Receiving Under Pressure: With 14 players in a tight space, every pass and first touch has to be quick and accurate.
Switching Play: Teams learn to move the ball from end to end instead of getting stuck on one side.
Counter-Pressing: Losing the ball is the cue to press straight away and win it back.
Scanning: Players need to check their surroundings before receiving to know where the next pass is going.

HOW IT WORKS

The game starts with a ball played into one of the teams. The two teams of 7 compete for possession inside the grid, and the two neutral players play with whichever team has the ball. The neutrals can’t be tackled, so there’s always an option to relieve pressure.

A team scores a point by playing the ball to one neutral and then working it all the way through the grid to the neutral at the opposite end without losing possession. Once a point is scored, the team keeps the ball and can attack back towards the other neutral. If the ball is lost, the team presses immediately to win it back, while the new team in possession looks to start their own attack through the neutrals.

Coaching Flexibility: Adjust the grid size or add a two-touch limit to match your players’ level. A larger grid gives more time on the ball, while a smaller grid or touch limit raises the pressure.

OTHER KEY POINTS

Encourage players to scan before their first touch so they already know their next pass.
Rotate the neutral players every 2-5 minutes to ensure everyone gets involved evenly.
Encourage players to stay on their toes, maintaining a state of readiness to receive the ball.
The drill should be seen as inspiration. So feel free to adapt the drill to suit your team’s specific needs or focus areas.