shooting U14 soccer drills
shooting U14 drills that you can apply to help your players progress on the shooting aspect. Sign up to receive our latest drills.
Access more drillsFirst touch in the direction of play and double shooting
Shooting exercise that focuses on the importance of the first touch in the final third. Ideal for working on the attacking aspect against a team that would defend in a low block.
Discover our shooting U14 drills
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....
Shooting and using support during the build-up play
10 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Very dynamic drill where the player must serve a winger on the run to initiate the counterattack....
Defensive interventions and quick attacks through the winger
15 min
4-24 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U17
Defensive duel to recover the ball before immediately launching a winger in a counterattack....
Small-sided game in 4v4 with 4 players providing support in the defensive third
15 min
12-24 joueurs
Small-sided games
U15 - U16
Exercise with 3 teams of 4 to work on managing danger in the final third, effectively closing down shooting and crossing angles, and defensive cohesion around the goalkeeper....
1v1 duels with neutral support and quick finishing on close goals
12 min
4-20 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U14
High-intensity 1v1 duel with a directional layoff pass, goal choice, and immediate shooting....
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What is the U14 category?
The U14 category includes children aged 13-14 years. It is quite similar to the U15 category in terms of approach, although some important elements need to be considered. The U14 category marks an important stage in your players' lives: the transition to the full-size field, the much-dreaded 11-a-side field. At 14 years, you will need to focus your U14 training sessions around three main pillars: athletic development, tactical knowledge, and technical skill.
In U14, players reach a significant milestone in their young soccer careers. Beyond their commitment, the competitive spirit, individualities, and personalities begin to emerge. To best help them progress both individually and collectively, planning and structuring your training sessions accordingly requires real preparation.
To assist you, here is a detailed guide on the U14 category.
In U14, players reach a significant milestone in their young soccer careers. Beyond their commitment, the competitive spirit, individualities, and personalities begin to emerge. To best help them progress both individually and collectively, planning and structuring your training sessions accordingly requires real preparation.
To assist you, here is a detailed guide on the U14 category.
The objectives of the U14 category in soccer
The U14 category in soccer involves players who have not yet reached the age of 14 at the start of the season. At this age, players begin to refine their technical skills while developing a better understanding of game tactics.
The goal as a coach is to consolidate the technical foundations acquired in previous years (U13), while introducing and reinforcing the first tactical concepts. This includes, for example:
- The importance of positioning,
- Understanding offensive and defensive phases,
- Improving decision-making on the field.
- Directed passes
- Communication on the field during different phases of the game (corner, fouls…)
As a U14 player is in full physical development, it is also necessary to take the time to add exercises focused on muscle strengthening. This through training aimed at improving speed, endurance, and strength while being age-appropriate to avoid injuries.
Some tips for coaching a U14 team
Coaching a U14 team requires a teaching approach adapted to the players' age, their current level, and their potential for growth. It is essential for any coach to maintain a balance between the fun aspect of the sport and the development of soccer skills.
Coaches should thus encourage creativity, risk-taking, and personal expression on the field for each U14 player, while teaching the fundamental principles of team play.
Finally, keep in mind that at this age, positive communication and attention to the players' well-being are essential for their development and fulfillment.
What training exercises for U14s?
U14 training exercises should be designed to develop both the individual qualities of each player while implementing a collective game tactic. The U14 exercises, similar to exercises for higher categories, can encompass many themes, but we advise you to focus on the basics: control-passing, movement, and game intelligence. These elements will form the foundation of your players' playing style for many years, so do not neglect them. Be sure to animate your U14 training sessions well, managing the exercises as well as the rest periods.
Are you lacking inspiration in structuring your training sessions? Here are some exercise ideas:
- Technical courses: create courses with cones to work on dribbling, ball control, and accelerations, etc. The goal here will be to improve ball mastery and ball handling.
- Triangle or square passing games: these games help develop passing accuracy, quick decision-making, and off-the-ball play.
- Mini-matches: organize matches in small groups (3 vs 3 or 4 vs 4) to encourage interactions and understanding of team play. This will also allow you to apply technical skills in a match context.
- Shooting workshops: set up specific exercises around shooting, from various angles, game actions, focusing on power, technique, or precision.
- Agility and information gathering - the cup stealing game in soccer school : this fun exercise will help your players improve key skills like speed and decision-making.
Build-up in 3v3 and finding the support in the final third
15 min
8-14 joueurs
Tactical
U14 - U15
3v3 midfield build-up exercise with the requirement to find a target forward in the final third before being able to finish....
Specific forward training – runs, slalom, and double finishing
15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Individual drill for a forward with a curved run, directional control, followed by a quick double shooting into two mini-goals....
1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting
15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Through repeated 1v1 duels, players must beat their defender using a prescribed skill move and quickly finish with a shot on goal....
Using width in a double situation in 4v4
20 min
16-20 joueurs
Tactical
U15 - U17
Tactical drill that allows your players to better use width with a focus on the transition phase between ball recovery and the counterattack....
One-touch offensive combinations with shooting
15 min
8-24 joueurs
Technical
U16 - U15
A very simple exercise to set up, but it allows for numerous variations. You will work on several attacking combinations as well as the timing and precision of passes....
Fast forward play with a 7v7 in 3 zones
20 min
12-16 joueurs
Small-sided games
U17 - U14
This small-sided game, used by Vicente Del Bosque during a training session at Real Madrid, is ideal for working on smooth transitions in midfield and quickly getting into goal-scoring situations....
Positioning in a "Y", creating space, and shooting
20 min
6-18 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U11
Inspired by an exercise used by Vicente Del Bosque, this drill will allow you to work on offensive combinations in front of the goal as well as shooting. With several possible variations, you can add more depth to your training session....
Shooting practice on 3 consecutive phases of play
18 min
10-22 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Finishing workshop with 3 different phases of play that will allow your players to effectively work on various aspects specific to shooting, such as positioning in relation to the ball or their relationship to space....
Offensive combinations with runs behind and double shooting
20 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Used by Unai Emery at Arsenal (2018), this attacking circuit emphasizes timing and speed of execution....
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....
Training on directional control and shooting in 2 drills
15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U12
Ideal shooting workshop to work on the final touch and specifically the speed during this ball control. The objective is to get into shooting position as quickly as possible....
2v1 with shooting and defender tracking back
15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U15
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....
Preventing the build-up play: high press and shooting in 2v1
12 min
10-16 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U12
Thanks to a high press and shooting in 2v1 situations, this drill is ideal for blocking the opponent's build-up play. Make sure to enforce the instructions well to get the most out of your players....
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....
First touch and shooting within the box
20 min
7-14 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
A very dynamic exercise that will allow your players to work on their first touch and shooting in the heart of the penalty area. Numerous progressions are possible....
First touch in the direction of play and double shooting
20 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U15
Shooting exercise that focuses on the importance of the first touch in the final third. Ideal for working on the attacking aspect against a team that would defend in a low block....
Circuit in groups of 3 with duels and shooting work
15 min
6-18 joueurs
Technical
U17 - U16
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)....
Passing circuit on 6 cones with shooting on a full-size goal
15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U16 - U17
Shooting practice following a passing sequence inspired by the famous Tiki Taka used by FC Barcelona. Feel free to use variations to add tempo to the exercise....
Double 2v1 following a passing sequence (variation)
15 min
8-20 joueurs
Small-sided games
U16 - U12
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....
Offensive Combinations and Shooting with 4 Players
15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
This drill combining various attacking combinations is ideal for working on shooting from different aspects: shooting at the edge of the box, cut-back cross, etc....
Combination and shooting in front of the goal followed by a 2v2
15 min
12-18 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U13
Exercise to work on attacking combinations and the final action in front of the goal. The sequence ends with a 2v2 duel, progressing to a 3v2 situation with a numerical advantage....
Shooting practice with slalom and body feint
15 min
10-22 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U14
Ideal drill for working on shooting with a slalom, a pass into the run, and a body feint. It will allow you to work on strikes in a rhythmic manner, even with a large number of players....
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....
Combine in a 2v1 to eliminate the direct opponent
15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U17 - U14
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....
2v2 Work and Basic Tactical Principles
15 min
6-12 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - 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)....
Dribble and immediate follow-up
20 min
14-16 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U12
Ideal drill for getting your players to work on their sequence after the dribble. They practice lifting their heads and gathering information after the dribble and quickly releasing the ball....
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)....
Shot on the move without control
15 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U12
Excellent exercise to work on shooting without control and on the move with your players. Game awareness is essential in this type of drill, so remember to remind your players!...
Agility and Shooting
12 min
8-10 joueurs
Conditioning
U15 - U11
Ideal exercise for working on speed and agility without the ball. The race between 2 players for the final shot adds extra motivation for the players....
1v1 Duel and Wing Play
20 min
10-14 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U15
Excellent exercise for practicing 1v1 duels on the flanks with an attacker’s feint and shooting situation....
1v1 Duel with Chasing Defender
15 min
12-14 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U10
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....
4v4 Numerical Equality Game and Shooting Situation
20 min
10-12 joueurs
Tactical
U13 - U11
By creating game conditions in a limited space, leading to an off-the-ball run and a shooting opportunity, you allow your players to work on both offensive and defensive actions in an even-numbered situation....
Dribbling then cross: right foot, left foot
15 min
8-14 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U11
Practice crosses with this easy-to-set-up drill that allows for good rotation when you have a large number of players....
Shot then defensive transition in 1v1
10 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U17 - U16
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!...
5v5 Shooting Game
20 min
10-14 joueurs
Technical
U17 - U14
Simple but incredibly effective drill to work on shooting. Find the right angle, position yourself, strike, all while simulating match situations....
4v4 and off-the-ball runs into space
15 min
8-10 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U14
With this 4v4 enhanced by off-the-ball runs and duels in the box, this drill is perfect for working on both offensive and defensive technique....
Other sub-theme U14 soccer drills
U14 Agility soccer drills
- Specific forward training – runs, slalom, and double finishing
- Technical Circuit of Passing, Dribbling, and Shooting
- Speed Work and 1v1 Duels
U14 Attacking transition soccer drills
- Rondo in 4v2 and pressing with a numerical disadvantage
- Defensive transitions after loss in rondo games
- Attacking transition: recovery and retention
U14 Build-up play soccer drills
- Shooting and using support during the build-up play
- 8v8: connection of the fullbacks with the attacking line across 5 zones
- Build-up play under pressure and switch of play in 2-1-2
U14 Circuit soccer drills
- Shooting practice with slalom and body feint
- Athletic work in 30-15 with the ball on 4 stations
- Warm-up Circuit: Speed and Agility Work
U14 Cognitive soccer drills
- 1v1 Duels with Mini Goals Following a Passing Sequence
- Possession play and progressive switches of play
- Relay in pairs for athletic and agility work
U14 Counterattack soccer drills
- Attacking transition: recovery and retention
- Possession and quick counterattacks in a 3v2 followed by a 2v1
- 6v4 Possession Game with Attacking-Defensive Transition
U14 Counter-pressing soccer drills
- Small-sided game in 4v4 with 4 players providing support in the defensive third
- Possession game in 2 zones with role change
- Rondo in 4v2 and pressing with a numerical disadvantage
U14 Defensive recovery / Tracking back soccer drills
- Defensive interventions and quick attacks through the winger
- Offensive combinations in 3v2 with defensive recovery
- Defensive work in pairs in a small area
U14 Defensive transition soccer drills
- Sequence of small-sided games in 1v1, 2v1, 2v2, then 3v2
- 4v4 possession game with 2 support players per team
- 1v1 Duels with a double following a sequence of passes
U14 Dribbling soccer drills
- Dribbling, passing, and diagonal run
- Unlocking mini-goals with gate passing in 4v4
- Diamond passing circuit with give and go variation
U14 Duels soccer drills
- Zonal defense with a 3v3 in an expanded area
- 1v1 Duel Facing the Goal
- Combine in a 2v1 to eliminate the direct opponent
U14 Endurance soccer drills
- 3v3 with a neutral player and central support – stop-ball and overlaps
- Defensive interventions and quick attacks through the winger
- Athletic warm-up: hurdles, give and go, and accelerations
U14 Explosive strength soccer drills
- Mastery of footwork, balance, and body control - without the ball
- Relay in pairs for athletic and agility work
- Specific forward training – runs, slalom, and double finishing
U14 Fun Game soccer drills
- Warm-up: team ball possession
- 4v1 Rondo with Zone Changes
- Athletic warm-up: hurdles, give and go, and accelerations
U14 Gaps soccer drills
- Possession game in 2 zones with role change
- Pass sequence with layoff, support runs, and through ball play
- Playing between the lines and following up the action
U14 Motor skills soccer drills
- Endurance capacity circuit with ball and motor skills work
- Mastery of footwork, balance, and body control - without the ball
- Drop-off and ball control
U14 Offensive combinations soccer drills
- Offensive Combinations and Shooting with 4 Players
- Offensive combinations in 3v2 with defensive recovery
- One-touch offensive combinations with shooting
U14 Overload soccer drills
- Double 2v1 following a passing sequence (variation)
- Dynamic possession game in 4v2 with 2 balls
- Combination and shooting in front of the goal followed by a 2v2
U14 Passes soccer drills
- Dribbling, passing, and diagonal run
- Passing Circuit with Triple One-Two Pass and Give-and-Go
- Right foot, left foot passing and directional control work
U14 Positional play soccer drills
- Dribble and immediate follow-up
- Small-sided game in 3v3 with neutral side supports and quick shooting
- Pass sequence with layoff, support runs, and through ball play
U14 Possession soccer drills
- 3-Team Possession Game (6v6 + 3 neutral players)
- Possession game in 2 zones with role change
- Dynamic possession game in 4v2 with 2 balls
U14 Pressing soccer drills
- 4v2 Possession Game with River Crossing
- Possession game in 2 zones with role change
- Build-up play under pressure and switch of play in 2-1-2
U14 Rondos soccer drills
- 4v2 Possession Game with River Crossing
- Possession game in double zone with coordinated press
- 5v5 opposition with "4 corner jokers"
U14 Scanning soccer drills
- Pass sequence with layoff, support runs, and through ball play
- Playing between the lines and following up the action (2)
- Training on directional control and shooting in 2 drills
U14 Support soccer drills
- Warm-up with neutral support in the wide areas
- Shooting and using support during the build-up play
- Support around the attacker to create 2v1 situations