defensive recovery / tracking back U20 soccer drills

defensive recovery / tracking back U20 drills that you can apply to help your players progress on the defensive recovery / tracking back aspect. Sign up to receive our latest drills.

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Goalkeeper distribution and 1v2 duels with defender chasing

This highly dynamic drill starts with a goalkeeper's distribution followed by a series of 1v2 duels with a defender in pursuit, potentially evolving into a 3v3.

Animation: Goalkeeper distribution and 1v2 duels with defender chasing
Mark out a zone of about 30x40m then place 2 large goals on each width. Next, set up 4 mini-goals in the center of the field as well as 2 cones at the same level (see animation). Finally, place a cone near each large goal. Form 2 teams of 6 players and ask them to position themselves at each cone.

The exercise will proceed as follows:
  1. Everything starts with a goalkeeper's distribution to the first player (A) who will control it and then lay it off to the goalkeeper.
  2. The latter will then switch sides by finding the second player (B) on the opposite side.
  3. B performs a directional control then dribbles within the first half of the field.
  4. Player A then positions as a defender, resulting in a 1v1 on the large goal against the opposing attacker.
  5. The third player (C) starts as soon as B has made their control and will act as a chasing defender. This results in a 1v2.

Variation: as soon as the 2v1 duels are over, you can continue with a 3v3 on the 2 large goals. Remember to limit the opposition in time (we recommend 1 minute to 1 minute 30) to maintain a high intensity.

Variation with a progression in 3v3
Variation with a progression in 3v3

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