Unleash the power of possession play with this dynamic 7v7+3 Small-Sided Game (SSG)! Suitable for players aged U15 and up , this engaging drill, also used by Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen, refines ball possession, player movement, space creation, and pressing techniques in a competitive environment.
Breakdown of this SSG:
- Playing Area: Marked rectangle (30 meters x 40 meters).
- Equipment: Football and cones (optional to mark the playing area).
- Players: 17 players divided into three teams: Blue (7 players), Red (7 players), and Yellow (3 neutral players).
- Neutral Player Positioning: Three neutral players (yellow) position themselves on the sideline (one each on the left and right) and in the center of the pitch, ready to assist the team in possession.
- Time: 30 minutes
Drill Process:
- Initial Possession: The drill commences with one team (e.g., Blue) starting with possession in the center zone, utilizing the neutral players for support.
- Creating Space and Movement: The team in possession (Blue) focuses on maintaining control of the ball through short passes, creating space with movement on and off the ball, and utilizing the neutral players as passing options.
- Pressing and Covering: The opposing team (Red) implements high pressing tactics to win the ball back, while maintaining a compact defensive shape to cover passing lanes.
- Neutral Player Role: The neutral players strategically assist the team in possession by offering passing outlets and creating numerical advantages in different areas of the pitch.
- Transition Upon Possession Change: Once the Red team wins the ball, they transition into attacking the opposite end of the field, with the Blue team now responsible for pressing and covering.
Watch the accompanying animated video created with TacticalPad to see the drill in action:
Coaching Cues:
- Sharp Passing and Movement: Emphasize crisp and accurate passing to maintain possession, along with intelligent movement to create space and receive passes effectively.
- Decision-Making under Pressure: Encourage players to make quick decisions under pressure from the opposing team, prioritizing ball retention or initiating forward passes when opportunities arise.
- Neutral Player Support: Guide the neutral players to understand when and where to offer themselves as passing options to support the team in possession.
- High Pressing Strategies: For the pressing team, focus on coordinated pressing tactics to win the ball back quickly, with players effectively closing down passing lanes and tackling strategically.
Benefits from this game:
- Improves players’ ball control and passing accuracy in a dynamic setting.
- Enhances movement on and off the ball to create space and passing options.
- Develops decision-making skills under pressure.
- Sharpens pressing techniques and coordinated defensive positioning.
- Promotes game-like situations for players to practice possession play, transitions, and attacking and defending strategies.
Variations:
- Time Limit for Possession: Introduce a time limit (e.g., 15 seconds) for the team in possession to force quicker decision-making and movement.
- Limited Touches: Implement a touch limit (e.g., 2 touches) to encourage faster ball circulation and passing.
- Specific Zones for Neutral Players: Restrict the movement of the neutral players to specific zones of the pitch, challenging the team in possession to build up play through different areas.
Related Article: SSG 8v8 – Possessing Under Pressure, Transitions & Finishing
