Soccer Pair Scrimmage Training Drill

Setup

  • 6 pairs
  • cones to mark off area
  • 4 cone goals 4-6yds wide
  • good supply of balls
  • pinnies
  • 15-30 min

Rules & Objectives

  • each team defends and attacks two cone goals
  • each team consists of 2 pairs and play 4v4 (2 pairs waiting on the side line)
  • teams score by dribbling through opponents cone goal
  • after 5 minutes pairs are reshuffled and again play 4v4
  • play multiple rounds
  • each pair earns 3 points for a win and 1 point for a tie
  • pair with best record wins

Variations

  • three touch minimum for players
  • teams score by passing through either cone goal of the opponent
  • play with reg. goals and goalies
  • adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group if necessary

Coaching Points

  • angle, distance and timing of support
  • vision
  • decision making
  • verbal and visual communication
  • set up defender
  • change of speed &direction
  • protect the ball
  • vision
  • close control

Difficulty: Intermediate

Emphasis: Attacking, Defending, Dribbling

Number of Players: 12+

Age Group: 12 to 15, 16+, 8 to 11

Format: 4v4

Additional Drills