duels U15 soccer drills

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Offensive Combinations and Numerical Advantage in 2v1

In this comprehensive drill, you will enable your players to work on several phases of play during a numerical advantage in 2v1 and then in 3v2. Many variations are possible.

Animation: Offensive Combinations and Numerical Advantage in 2v1
Mark out an area equal to 2 times the penalty area, then place 2 mini-goals on the opposite width to the large goal. Then form 2 teams (offensive players vs defensive players) and position yourself at the midfield line with the ball source, as indicated in the animation.

The exercise will proceed as follows:
  1. You will play to one of the 2 offensive players who will enter the field in pairs.
  2. As soon as he/she controls the ball, a defender will enter the playing area.
  3. This leads to a 2vs1 where the objective of the team with the numerical advantage is to score on the large goal, while the defender must recover the ball to finish on one of the 2 mini-goals.

1st progression: place a cone between the 2 mini-goals to serve as a 3rd starting point for the offensive players. The players then play 3vs2 still in the same area, and the rules remain the same.

Progression in 3vs2
Progression in 3vs2


2nd progression: add a time limit (5 seconds) after which a 3rd defender enters the game to form a 3vs3 numerical equality. This will force your offensive players to quickly take advantage of the numerical advantage.

Entry of a 3rd defender after 5 seconds
Entry of a 3rd defender after 5 seconds

3rd progression: in this evolution, you will ask a defender to enter the area as soon as his teammates recover the ball, to achieve a 3vs3. This will require the offensive players to work on their attacking-defensive transition.

Entry of a 3rd player upon recovery
Entry of a 3rd player upon recovery


The objectives of this exercise are multiple:
  • Effectively exploit spaces during a numerical advantage.
  • Work on the attacking-defensive transition

Discover our duels U15 drills

Support around the attacker to create 2v1 situations

Support around the attacker to create 2v1 situations

15 min
10-18 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U15
Offensive situation where the attacker plays under pressure and relies on two supports to create a 2v1 and find the best shooting option....
Defensive interventions and quick attacks through the winger

Defensive interventions and quick attacks through the winger

15 min
4-24 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Defensive duel to recover the ball before immediately launching a winger in a counterattack....
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
U12 - U15
High-intensity 1v1 duel with a directional layoff pass, goal choice, and immediate shooting....
Build-up in 3v3 and finding the support in the final third

Build-up in 3v3 and finding the support in the final third

15 min
8-14 joueurs
Tactical
U16 - U17
3v3 midfield build-up exercise with the requirement to find a target forward in the final third before being able to finish....
1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting

1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting

15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U14
Through repeated 1v1 duels, players must beat their defender using a prescribed skill move and quickly finish with a shot on goal....
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The U15 exercises can encompass many themes, but we advise you to focus on the basics: movement, control-pass, and game understanding. These will be the foundations for your players for many years to come. Make sure to animate your U15 training sessions well, as this will help maintain a motivating pace for your players.

The U15 category in soccer, which includes players aged 14-15 and is also known as under 15, marks an important stage in a young player's learning. Indeed, they transition from understanding the sport to a more competitive and rigorous aspect. This development period is characterized by a significant increase in the players' technical, tactical, and physical skills, all linked to maximum game mastery and understanding of its stakes.

What is the U15 category in soccer?


The U15 category in soccer includes players under 15 who practice this sport. At this age, players are generally in full adolescence, which implies significant changes both physically, emotionally, and socially.

On the field, this translates to an increase in size, strength, and coordination. Tactical game concepts are also more easily grasped, allowing you, as a coach, to vary your training approach.

The objectives of the U15 category


The main objective of the U15 category in soccer is to prepare players for higher levels of competition they will encounter in upcoming seasons. The goal is to continue their progress as athletes but also as individuals.

Other objectives may stem from the main one, including: 
  1. Perfecting individual technical skills like dribbles, controls, shots, and passes.
  2. Developing a true tactical understanding of the game through both defensive and offensive movements, not forgetting game awareness.
  3. Strengthening the physical condition of growing players: endurance, speed, strength, and agility.
  4. Promoting sports values like fair play, respect for teammates, opponents, and referees.
  5. Expressing player leadership and helping them understand their responsibilities.
  6. Preparing players for higher competitions by offering complex and pressure-filled game situations.

Some tips for coaching a U15 team


Coaching a U15 team requires a dynamic and personalized approach to discover the potential of each of your players, who individually do not grow in the same way. Here are some tips we can give you: 
  • Set clear expectations in terms of behavior, commitment, and performance while creating a positive and stimulating training environment.
  • Design varied and progressive training sessions that emphasize the development of technical, tactical, and physical skills.
  • Encourage autonomy and responsibility among players by giving them leadership roles and promoting their involvement in session planning and evaluation.
  • Provide constructive and individualized feedback to help players identify their strengths and areas for improvement.
  • Integrate elements of mental preparation and stress management to help players face competition challenges and develop resilience.

What training exercises for U15s?


As with all categories, it is important for you to adapt your training sessions based on your group's level.

Here are some examples: 
  1. Ball possession exercises with quick transitions to improve decision-making and coordination.
  2. Set up combinations and triangle plays to promote team play and communication.
  3. Work on shooting with realistic game situations to improve offensive efficiency in front of the goal.
  4. Offer small-sided games with specific rules to stimulate creativity and problem-solving among players.
  5. Improve individual and collective defense with marking exercises and pressing.

In summary, the U15 category in soccer marks a true turning point in soccer learning. Adolescents grow and develop their game, skills, and understanding of the sport to play at higher levels in upcoming seasons.
High-intensity 1v1 mini-tournament (promotion-relegation)

High-intensity 1v1 mini-tournament (promotion-relegation)

16 min
8-16 joueurs
Conditioning
U15 - U14
1v1 tournament in a promotion-relegation format with 4 fields featuring different rules to enhance intensity, creativity, and the repetition of duels....
Drill: Dribbling and 1v1 Duels with Direct Opponent

Drill: Dribbling and 1v1 Duels with Direct Opponent

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Ideal for working on ball control and dribbling under pressure, this circuit will allow your players to express their creativity while working on duels with a direct opponent....
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....
1v1 Duels with Mini Goals Following a Passing Sequence

1v1 Duels with Mini Goals Following a Passing Sequence

15 min
4-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
1v1 duel drill with many possible variations that will call upon the cognitive qualities of your players....
Escaping a 1v2 Under Pressure: Creativity and Quickness

Escaping a 1v2 Under Pressure: Creativity and Quickness

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U13
A small, dynamic exercise that will allow your players to express their creativity and react quickly under pressure....
1v1 Duels with a double following a sequence of passes

1v1 Duels with a double following a sequence of passes

20 min
12-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
This very intense drill focuses on 1v1 duels and quick decision-making. Your players should enjoy it!...
Decision Making and Shooting in 2v1 (+1) with Defensive Recovery

Decision Making and Shooting in 2v1 (+1) with Defensive Recovery

15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Simple exercise to set up, but it allows you to work on many aspects, from decision-making to shooting, including the trajectory of runs....
2v1 with shooting and defender tracking back

2v1 with shooting and defender tracking back

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Thanks to this 2v1 exercise with various progressions, you will be able to train your defenders with their backs to the goal, progressing to a 2v2 with a defender tracking back....
Offensive Combinations and Numerical Advantage in 2v1

Offensive Combinations and Numerical Advantage in 2v1

20 min
8-18 joueurs
Tactical
U15 - U14
In this comprehensive drill, you will enable your players to work on several phases of play during a numerical advantage in 2v1 and then in 3v2. Many variations are possible....
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....
Defensive work in pairs in a small area

Defensive work in pairs in a small area

15 min
6-18 joueurs
Tactical
U15 - U14
This drill in the form of a 2v2 with support is ideal for working on two-player defense and positioning in tight spaces....
Circuit in groups of 3 with duels and shooting work

Circuit in groups of 3 with duels and shooting work

15 min
6-18 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
A highly dynamic drill that will allow your players to work on shooting with 1v1 duels on crosses. Ideal for U14-U15 but can be applied to different age groups (by adjusting the distances)....
Double 2v1 following a passing sequence (variation)

Double 2v1 following a passing sequence (variation)

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Small-sided games
U14 - U15
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....
Speed Work and 1v1 Duels

Speed Work and 1v1 Duels

15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U18 - U19
This speed-agility drill with 1v1 duels and shooting on a full-size goal is ideal after a complete warm-up. You can add your personal touch to it....
Agility in 1v1 with ball and colored signals

Agility in 1v1 with ball and colored signals

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Conditioning
Seniors - U19
A small agility exercise that will engage your players' cognitive abilities while keeping a significant portion of the drill with the ball....
1v1s on small goals with a defender chasing

1v1s on small goals with a defender chasing

15 min
12-24 joueurs
Technical
U19 - U16
On the agenda: 1v1 duels followed by 2v1 with a defender in pursuit. Quick decision-making will be crucial!...
Double 2v1 following a passing combination

Double 2v1 following a passing combination

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Intense and very interesting 2v1 exercise to work on offensive combinations. Consider offering progressions during the drill....
Zonal defense with a 3v3 in an expanded area

Zonal defense with a 3v3 in an expanded area

15 min
6-24 joueurs
Tactical
U17 - U16
Excellent exercise to work on ball circulation to find a shooting angle. It will allow your players to multiply offensive combinations while having your defenders work on zonal marking....
Offensive Combinations in 2v1 on Opposite Goals

Offensive Combinations in 2v1 on Opposite Goals

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - 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....
Combine in a 2v1 to eliminate the direct opponent

Combine in a 2v1 to eliminate the direct opponent

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U17
This drill is ideal for working on direct elimination in match situations, while using sideways support and finishing near the edge of the penalty area....
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
U13 - U17
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

2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles

15 min
6-12 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U15
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
U15 - 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
U12 - U14
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
U15 - U13
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
U15 - U17
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
U15 - U13
3v3 game drill to work on your players' tactical understanding of zonal marking (marking, defensive cover, and balance)....
Defensive play training for the fullback

Defensive play training for the fullback

15 min
8-12 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U17
Ideal exercise for training your fullbacks in defensive play on the wing and the sequence of defensive actions....
Drop-off and ball control

Drop-off and ball control

15 min
12-14 joueurs
Technical
U15 - 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
U14 - U12
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
U11 - U15
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
U11 - U13
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
U13 - U11
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: Working on Footwork and Balance

1v1 Duel: Working on Footwork and Balance

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

Shot then defensive transition in 1v1

10 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U16 - U15
The individual attacking-to-defensive transition is one of the most important aspects of modern soccer, yet it is often overlooked during certain sessions. Here is an exercise that should address this!...

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