1v1 Duels and Defensive Positioning

Exercise focused on defensive technique: how to effectively defend when positioned against an attacker in a 1v1? Numerous repetitions to enhance learning. Drill recommended for your U11 players

1v1 Duels and Defensive Positioning
Durée de l'exercice

Durée

15 min
Nombre de joueurs

Joueurs

8-16
Thème de l'exercice

Thème

Technique
Animation: 1v1 Duels and Defensive Positioning
Mark out 2 playing areas of approximately 30x25m, each 30m from the goal (see animation). Then place 2 attackers and 2 defenders in each area. The exercise will alternate from each side (right then left, etc.).

The drill will proceed as follows:
  1. You start the play with a through ball to the attacker within the area.
  2. The defender enters the area at this moment, followed by a 1v1 duel.
  3. The defender's objective is to recover the ball by positioning correctly and making their intervention at the right moment.
  4. The offensive player's objective is to win their duel with the defender to exit the area and finish on goal.

Instruct your defenders to not turn around or commit too early. They should find the right distance to defend upright and push the attacker towards the sideline. If the attacker exits the area from one of the sides, the point is lost.