duels U13 soccer drills

duels U13 drills that you can apply to help your players progress on the duels aspect. Sign up to receive our latest drills.

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Tic-Tac-Toe possession game with overload

A very fun game that combines problem-solving, decision-making, and attacking-defensive transitions. Highly appreciated by players and ideal for soccer schools!

Animation: Tic-Tac-Toe possession game with overload
Mark out a zone of approximately 20x25m with 2 small goals on each width. Outside this playing area, set up a tic-tac-toe grid using cones. Form 2 teams of 5 players and position yourself outside the area with a source of balls by your side. 

The exercise starts with a tic-tac-toe (using pinnies or colored cones). Each player must place a pinnie in the square of their choice. The first team to make a line of 3 (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal) will then gain a numerical advantage for the following opposition. As soon as the point is scored, 2 players from the winning team and 1 player from the losing team enter the playing area, resulting in a 2vs1. 

When a goal is scored, 1 player from each team enters the field to create a 3vs2. With the next goal, the same process leads to a 4vs3, then 5vs4, and finally ends with a 5vs5 in terms of the final opposition.

Count the number of goals scored for each team to establish a form of competition, then restart with the tic-tac-toe once the 5vs5 is completed. 

Note: if the intermediate oppositions (2vs1, 3vs2, etc.) are too long, you can add a time limit and bring in new players even if no team has scored.

The tic-tac-toe game adapted to soccer is a classic, and this variant with opposition is very popular with players!

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Duels

Discover our duels U13 drills

Continuation of 1v1 duels with back to goal and mini-goals on opposite ends

Continuation of 1v1 duels with back to goal and mini-goals on opposite ends

15 min
4-20 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U12
1v1 duel where the attacker receives the ball with their back to the defender, must shield the ball, then turn to attack the mini-goal behind them....
Give-and-go, dribble, and shooting from different angles

Give-and-go, dribble, and shooting from different angles

15 min
3-18 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U11
Very simple to set up, this drill allows for practicing short passing combinations before a 1v1 with a defender and a quick shot against the goalkeeper....
1v1 with goalkeeper – back-to-goal duel and chasing defense

1v1 with goalkeeper – back-to-goal duel and chasing defense

15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U12
1v1 duel where the attacker starts with their back to the goal and must turn to shoot, while the defender protects their goal from behind....
Small-sided 2v2 games in 3 "drawer" zones

Small-sided 2v2 games in 3 "drawer" zones

15 min
4-20 joueurs
Small-sided games
U10 - U11
2v2 game where the attacking team progresses zone by zone to eliminate two defenders positioned on different "levels" before finishing on mini-goals....
Finishing After a 1v1 with a Through Ball Using Different Trajectories

Finishing After a 1v1 with a Through Ball Using Different Trajectories

15 min
4-24 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U10
1v1 duel where the attacker receives a through ball and must pass through a gate before finishing against the goalkeeper....
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What is the U13 category?


The U13 category represents children aged 12 to 13 years, and it is at this time that soccer concepts and training intensity increase a notch. At this age, children face significant physical changes, requiring training adaptation to support their growth, muscle development, and coordination improvement. Sessions must therefore be designed to meet these needs while continuing to develop their technical and tactical skills.

Objectives of the U13 category


The objectives for U13 expand to include not only technical development and coordination but also the integration of more complex and technical exercises. The focus will be more on developing game awareness both individually and collectively, decision-making in match situations, and improving more specific qualities like passing, shooting, set pieces or even dribbling.

Some tips for coaching a U13 team


For U13 players, it is advisable to avoid overly physical training and to favor activities that promote agility, endurance, and mastery of fundamental soccer qualities. Sessions should be simple yet dynamic, allowing players to improve through exercises that stimulate both their psychomotor development and tactical understanding. The integration of recovery periods is also essential to prevent injuries and promote healthy growth.

To summarize, here are our tips regarding your U13 training sessions: 
  1. Avoid "physical" training as you are used to practicing. Favor exercises for agility, endurance, and flexibility to promote psychomotor development.
  2. Conduct simple exercises for your players. Simplicity is crucial as it allows for better learning. It is your animation that will give rhythm to your U13 workshops, not the complexity of your training sessions.
  3. Remember to integrate recovery periods.

What training exercises for U13?


Exercises for U13 should include games and workshops that emphasize individual technique while integrating more advanced tactical elements. Small group play exercises, shooting sessions, and sessions focused on developing team strategy should be prioritized for your training. 

Here are some additional ideas to help you:
  • Possession game: In small groups to improve game awareness and maintaining possession.
  • Shooting workshops: With various scenarios to work on shooting under pressure, from different angles, with both strong and weak foot…
  • Quick transition exercises: Attack-defense exercises, and vice versa to develop reactivity and team strategy.
  • Dribbling sessions: With technical challenges to improve agility and control in match situations.
  • Small-sided games with specific conditions: For example, limiting the number of touches to encourage quick play and decision-making. Also consider implementing different tactics to teach players the importance of positioning and understanding what works best for your U13 team.
1v1 duels with neutral support and quick finishing on close goals

1v1 duels with neutral support and quick finishing on close goals

12 min
4-20 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U10
High-intensity 1v1 duel with a directional layoff pass, goal choice, and immediate shooting....
Cognitive work with colored gate choice in 1v1

Cognitive work with colored gate choice in 1v1

10 min
5-20 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U10
Series of 1v1 duels where the attacker must read the defender's choice by going through the same colored gate before going to shoot on goal....
7v7 Oppositions with 1v1 Duels on the Flanks

7v7 Oppositions with 1v1 Duels on the Flanks

20 min
14-16 joueurs
Small-sided games
U11 - U10
Small-sided game in 7v7 with two wide areas dedicated to 1v1 before a cross and shooting in the box....
1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting

1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting

15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U10
Through repeated 1v1 duels, players must beat their defender using a prescribed skill move and quickly finish with a shot on goal....
Movement off the ball, passes into space, and 1v1 duels

Movement off the ball, passes into space, and 1v1 duels

15 min
6-18 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U12
In this drill, players will have the opportunity to work on various aspects such as getting open, off-the-ball runs, and proper timing of passes. It can be used in different age groups....
Dynamic small-sided game in 2v1 on 3 mini goals

Dynamic small-sided game in 2v1 on 3 mini goals

20 min
6-12 joueurs
Small-sided games
U12 - U13
Small 2v1 duel game in a reduced space that emphasizes movement work, whether it's the defender's positioning or the runs of the 2 attacking players....
Dynamic 360° Opposition with 3 Teams of 3

Dynamic 360° Opposition with 3 Teams of 3

15 min
9-18 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U11
A small, highly dynamic 3v3 exercise that will help you work on game awareness in tight spaces and improve reactivity between each phase of play....
Escaping a 1v2 Under Pressure: Creativity and Quickness

Escaping a 1v2 Under Pressure: Creativity and Quickness

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
A small, dynamic exercise that will allow your players to express their creativity and react quickly under pressure....
4v3 back to goal with build-up play for the defenders

4v3 back to goal with build-up play for the defenders

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Tactical
U12 - U13
Ideal exercise for a soccer school, it will allow your players to work on playing with their back to the goal as well as build-up play in a 4v3 setup that is quite simple to implement....
Interception and forward ball control in 4v3

Interception and forward ball control in 4v3

20 min
9-16 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U12
Receiving the ball forward, anticipating interceptions, and making runs into space: this comprehensive exercise is ideal in every aspect and will allow you to work on quick transitions between defensive and attacking phases....
Double 2v1 following a passing sequence (variation)

Double 2v1 following a passing sequence (variation)

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Small-sided games
U12 - U16
Creative exercise allowing you to work on attacking-defensive transitions with a double 2v1 and a combination of passes. Use the suggested variations to make the exercise closer to real match conditions....
1v1 Distance Duels on Mini Goals

1v1 Distance Duels on Mini Goals

15 min
6-14 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U11
Ideal drill in soccer school to work on speed, decision-making, and listening. Combine this with ball control and shooting practice, and you have a complete and fun drill for your players....
Dribbling in figure 8 then 1v1 duel

Dribbling in figure 8 then 1v1 duel

15 min
4-14 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U10
This exercise is quite simple to set up and will allow your players to work on dribbling and improve their concentration level, while fostering a healthy competitive spirit....
Tic-Tac-Toe possession game with overload

Tic-Tac-Toe possession game with overload

20 min
10-20 joueurs
Small-sided games
U10 - U13
A very fun game that combines problem-solving, decision-making, and attacking-defensive transitions. Highly appreciated by players and ideal for soccer schools!...
Offensive Combinations in 2v1 on Opposite Goals

Offensive Combinations in 2v1 on Opposite Goals

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Tactical
U12 - U14
This high-intensity drill will allow your players to work on attacking sequences while emphasizing the importance of decision-making during the defensive phase....
Sequence of small-sided games in 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, then 3v2

Sequence of small-sided games in 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, then 3v2

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Small-sided games
U16 - U12
High-energy small-sided game with lots of changes in pace, this drill is perfect for working on attacking and defensive transitions and concentration. Your players will definitely love it!...
2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles (variation)

2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles (variation)

15 min
12-18 joueurs
Tactical
U10 - U13
Perfect exercise for your players to work on 2v2 situations and fundamental tactical principles: to draw a defender, support, and off-the-ball runs for the attackers - closing down the ball carrier and defensive cover for the defenders....
2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles

2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles

15 min
6-12 joueurs
Tactical
U16 - U17
Ideal drill to train your players on 2v2 and basic tactical principles (to draw a defender, support, and off-the-ball runs for attackers, and pressuring the ball carrier and defensive cover for defenders)....
Warm-up: 2v2 positioning work

Warm-up: 2v2 positioning work

15 min
6-12 joueurs
Warm-up
U14 - U12
Ideal warm-up drill for your players to improve in 2v2 situations, particularly on positioning in such scenarios....
1v1 and agility: support and change of direction

1v1 and agility: support and change of direction

12 min
6-12 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U13
Through this 1v1 drill, your players improve their footwork and change of direction at high speed. They also practice both offensive dribbling and defensive back-pedaling....
1v1 Duel Facing the Goal

1v1 Duel Facing the Goal

15 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U16
Excellent 1v1 drill allowing your players to practice both the duel as the last defender (defensive) and the duel facing the goal to finish an action (offensive)....
Warm-up: Passing drills and 1v1 training

Warm-up: Passing drills and 1v1 training

20 min
16-18 joueurs
Warm-up
U12 - U13
Warm-up drill to work your players on short passing, direct play, and ball recovery in 1v1 situations....
Zonal Defense in 3v3: Marking, Cover, and Balance

Zonal Defense in 3v3: Marking, Cover, and Balance

15 min
6-12 joueurs
Tactical
U14 - U15
3v3 game drill to work on your players' tactical understanding of zonal marking (marking, defensive cover, and balance)....
Drop-off and ball control

Drop-off and ball control

15 min
12-14 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U13
Ideal exercise to practice the back-pedal technique (defense) and dribbling (attack) with a point system to instill a good competitive spirit....
Protecting a Defensive Zone

Protecting a Defensive Zone

15 min
8-12 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U11
By placing your players in 1v1 situations within a defined space, the defenders work on defensive cover while the attackers practice dribbling....
Mastery of footwork, balance, and body control - without the ball

Mastery of footwork, balance, and body control - without the ball

12 min
12-14 joueurs
Conditioning
U13 - U11
Fun exercise ideal for working on motor skills: footwork, balance, and body control....
Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 3)

Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 3)

12 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U11
Ideal exercise for practicing duel techniques: dribbling and acceleration with the ball (offensive); backpedaling and positioning of the attacker (defensive)...
Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 2)

Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 2)

12 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U11
Ideal exercise for practicing 1v1 techniques: dribbling and acceleration with the ball (offensive); backpedaling and positioning of the attacker (defensive)...
Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 1)

Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 1)

12 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U13
Ideal exercise for practicing duel techniques: dribbling and accelerating with the ball (offensive); backpedaling and positioning the attacker (defensive)...
1v1 Duel and Wing Play

1v1 Duel and Wing Play

20 min
10-14 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U11
Excellent exercise for practicing 1v1 duels on the flanks with an attacker’s feint and shooting situation....
1v1 Duel with Chasing Defender

1v1 Duel with Chasing Defender

15 min
12-14 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U13
By giving a slight disadvantage to the defenders, this 1v1 drill helps work on both ball control at full speed for the attacker and delayed defensive situations for the defender....
1v1 Duel: Working on Footwork and Balance

1v1 Duel: Working on Footwork and Balance

12 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U15
1v1 Duel Exercise with Gate Passing: Ideal for working on footwork, balance, and defensive technique....
1v1 Duels and Defensive Positioning

1v1 Duels and Defensive Positioning

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U9
Exercise focused on defensive technique: how to effectively defend when positioned against an attacker in a 1v1? Numerous repetitions to enhance learning....

Other sub-theme U13 soccer drills

U13 Agility soccer drills

  1. One-two pass drill against a diamond formation
  2. Cognitive work without the ball with 1v1v1 duels
  3. 1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting
See all

U13 Attacking transition soccer drills

  1. 4v4 possession game with 2 support players per team
  2. Rondo in 4v2 and pressing with a numerical disadvantage
  3. Interception and forward ball control in 4v3
See all

U13 Build-up play soccer drills

  1. Switch of play using the central midfielder
  2. 4v3 back to goal with build-up play for the defenders
  3. One-two pass drill against a diamond formation
See all

U13 Circuit soccer drills

  1. Passing game work with a square of 6 players
  2. Switch of play using the central midfielder
  3. Information Gathering on a Sequence of Passes in 4v4
See all

U13 Cognitive soccer drills

  1. Cognitive work without the ball with 1v1v1 duels
  2. Juggling, retrieving pinnies, and shooting run
  3. 1v1 Distance Duels on Mini Goals
See all

U13 Counterattack soccer drills

  1. Rondo in 3+2 vs 3+2: managing the overload and quick transitions
See all

U13 Counter-pressing soccer drills

  1. Using Width in a 4v4 with 6 Mini-Goals
  2. Defensive transitions after loss in rondo games
  3. 4v4 possession game with 2 support players per team
See all

U13 Defensive recovery / Tracking back soccer drills

  1. Zonal Defense in 6v6: Marking, Cover, and Balance
  2. Collective replacement and management of offensive and defensive space
  3. Defensive transitions after loss in rondo games
See all

U13 Defensive transition soccer drills

  1. Interception and forward ball control in 4v3
  2. 2v1 Rondo in two zones
  3. 2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles (variation)
See all

U13 Dribbling soccer drills

  1. 4v4 Game with Colored Gates and Mini Goals
  2. Dribbling in figure 8 then 1v1 duel
  3. Dribbling: imitation and sequence to be repeated by the team
See all

U13 Endurance soccer drills

  1. 3v3 with a neutral player and central support – stop-ball and overlaps
See all

U13 Explosive strength soccer drills

  1. Cognitive work with colored gate choice in 1v1
  2. Heading practice in double circle (warm-up with ball)
  3. Small-sided games in 2v2 with goalkeeper in promotion relegation format
See all

U13 Fun Game soccer drills

  1. Cognitive work with a passing game on 4 squares
  2. The hourglass: passing game and dribbling
  3. Creating space through movement in 5v5
See all

U13 Gaps soccer drills

  1. Rondo in 3+2 vs 3+2: managing the overload and quick transitions
  2. Play in Space and Switches of Play
  3. 3v3 with a neutral player and central support – stop-ball and overlaps
See all

U13 Motor skills soccer drills

  1. Receiving on the half-turn and dribbling with the "escape from jail" drill
  2. Motor skills and ball control to improve footwork and balance
  3. Dribbling: imitation and sequence to be repeated by the team
See all

U13 Offensive combinations soccer drills

  1. Offensive Combinations in 2v1 on Opposite Goals
  2. One-two pass combinations with 2 teams then shooting
  3. Offensive combinations in 3v2 with defensive recovery
See all

U13 Overload soccer drills

  1. Tic-Tac-Toe possession game with overload
  2. Rondo in 4v2 and pressing with a numerical disadvantage
  3. Possession game in two zones with 5v3 and 3 gates
See all

U13 Passes soccer drills

  1. Positioning in a "Y", creating space, and shooting
  2. Diamond: layoff, switch of play, and through ball
  3. Double rondo with game awareness and information gathering
See all

U13 Positional play soccer drills

  1. 7v7 Oppositions with 1v1 Duels on the Flanks
  2. Short passing game, direct play on a passing sequence with switch of play
  3. Dribble and immediate follow-up
See all

U13 Possession soccer drills

  1. 4v4 possession game with 2 support players per team
  2. 4v4 Possession Game with Central Square
  3. Possession game with support at the 4 corners
See all

U13 Pressing soccer drills

  1. 4vs4+1: corner-to-corner possession with fixed support players
  2. Possession game with support at the 4 corners
  3. Unlocking mini-goals with gate passing in 4v4
See all

U13 Rondos soccer drills

  1. Tiki Taka: passing game with 2 central players
  2. Rondo in 3+2 vs 3+2: managing the overload and quick transitions
  3. Defensive transitions after loss in rondo games
See all

U13 Scanning soccer drills

  1. Possession game in two zones with 5v3 and 3 gates
  2. One-two pass game on a square of 4
  3. Double square with passing combinations
See all

U13 Shooting soccer drills

  1. 1v1 duels with neutral support and quick finishing on close goals
  2. Shot on the move without control
  3. Dribble and immediate follow-up
See all

U13 Support soccer drills

  1. 3v3 Wing Play with Support
  2. 3v3 with a neutral player and central support – stop-ball and overlaps
  3. Diamond: layoff, switch of play, and through ball
See all

U13 Transition soccer drills

  1. Zonal Defense in 6v6: Marking, Cover, and Balance
  2. 2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles (variation)
  3. 3v3 high-intensity with shooting on 6 mini goals
See all

U13 Using width soccer drills

  1. Dynamic small-sided game in 2v1 on 3 mini goals
  2. 4v4 and off-the-ball runs into space
  3. Warm-up: 2v2 positioning work
See all