technical U15 soccer drills

technical U15 drills that you can apply to help your players progress on the technical aspect. Sign up to receive our latest drills.

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First 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.

Animation: First touch in the direction of play and double shooting
Mark out a zone of about 30x35m then place 2 large goals on each length (you can, for example, use the penalty area by doubling its size). Then place 4 cones and 4 mannequins (or constri-foot) as indicated in the animation. Place a player at each cone with balls. Finally, set up 2 cones that will serve as a starting point and ask the rest of the players to spread out at each starting point, without a ball.

The exercise will proceed as follows:
  1. The 1st player (A) starts and goes around the 1st mannequin to request the ball from the player located at the cone in front of him.
  2. He then makes a first touch in the direction of play to get into a shooting position on the 1st goal.
  3. After shooting, he/she will request the ball from the 2nd player located near the goal, before making a controlled touch in the opposite direction then finishing with dribbling and shooting on the 2nd goal.
  4. After this 1st round, the 2nd player immediately follows on the opposite side.

Remember to advise your players on the importance of these first touches in the final third. The quality of the control will determine the rest of the action: this first touch should push the ball far enough from the player's feet to get into a shooting position, but not too far to avoid losing control of the ball.

Besides the technical aspect, this exercise is ideal for working on a match situation where the opposing team would defend in a low block, which would require your players to find solutions and openings in the attacking third.

Discover our technical 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 - U17
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

Shooting and using support during the build-up play

10 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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

Defensive interventions and quick attacks through the winger

15 min
4-24 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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
U10 - U15
High-intensity 1v1 duel with a directional layoff pass, goal choice, and immediate shooting....
Pass sequence with layoff, support runs, and through ball play

Pass sequence with layoff, support runs, and through ball play

10 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Dynamic layoff-support circuit where players combine quick passes, directional controls, and support runs before attacking the depth....
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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.
Specific forward training – runs, slalom, and double finishing

Specific forward training – runs, slalom, and double finishing

15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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

1v1 Duel with Required Skill Move and Shooting

15 min
4-16 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
Through repeated 1v1 duels, players must beat their defender using a prescribed skill move and quickly finish with a shot on goal....
Finishing Exercise from 4 Different Angles

Finishing Exercise from 4 Different Angles

15 min
5-20 joueurs
Technical
U15 - Seniors
Highly dynamic finishing exercise aimed at working on quick combinations, movements in the box, and a variety of shots from different angles....
Right foot, left foot passing and directional control work

Right foot, left foot passing and directional control work

12 min
5-15 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U17
In this highly dynamic exercise, your players will be able to work on passing in various forms, emphasizing the use of both feet....
Drill: Dribbling and 1v1 Duels with Direct Opponent

Drill: Dribbling and 1v1 Duels with Direct Opponent

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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....
Breaking the lines with passing combinations in 3 drills

Breaking the lines with passing combinations in 3 drills

15 min
12-24 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
This drill used with youth teams at Manchester City is divided into 3 stations, allowing players to work on different passing combinations to develop automatic movements....
1v1 Duels with Mini Goals Following a Passing Sequence

1v1 Duels with Mini Goals Following a Passing Sequence

15 min
4-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
1v1 duel drill with many possible variations that will call upon the cognitive qualities of your players....
One-two pass drill against a diamond formation

One-two pass drill against a diamond formation

15 min
6-18 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U15
Speed of execution, work on passing and movement are key to this drill, which will require several repetitions to achieve a good rhythm....
One-touch offensive combinations with shooting

One-touch offensive combinations with shooting

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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....
Positioning in a "Y", creating space, and shooting

Positioning in a "Y", creating space, and shooting

20 min
6-18 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
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

Shooting practice on 3 consecutive phases of play

18 min
10-22 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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....
Escaping a 1v2 Under Pressure: Creativity and Quickness

Escaping a 1v2 Under Pressure: Creativity and Quickness

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U15
A small, dynamic exercise that will allow your players to express their creativity and react quickly under pressure....
Offensive combinations with runs behind and double shooting

Offensive combinations with runs behind and double shooting

20 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Used by Unai Emery at Arsenal (2018), this attacking circuit emphasizes timing and speed of execution....
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
U14 - U17
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
U14 - U17
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

Training on directional control and shooting in 2 drills

15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U15
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

2v1 with shooting and defender tracking back

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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....
First touch and shooting within the box

First touch and shooting within the box

20 min
7-14 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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

First touch in the direction of play and double shooting

20 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U16
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

Circuit in groups of 3 with duels and shooting work

15 min
6-18 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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 square: combinations and sequences of short passing game

Double square: combinations and sequences of short passing game

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Numerous possible combinations in this double square drill to work on the fluidity of passes and movements before and after receiving the ball....
Diamond passing circuit with give and go variation

Diamond passing circuit with give and go variation

18 min
5-20 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
Passing sequence in a diamond shape with off-the-ball run and dribbling, this drill will allow your players to primarily work on their passing quality and movements before and after receiving the ball. Numerous variations are possible....
Double square with passing combinations

Double square with passing combinations

15 min
12-24 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U15
Inspired by a workshop used by Vicente Del Bosque at Real Madrid, this exercise helps work on the timing of the pass as well as movements before and after receiving the ball. You can apply it as is for U12-U13 or adjust the distances to use it in other age groups....
Passing circuit on 6 cones with shooting on a full-size goal

Passing circuit on 6 cones with shooting on a full-size goal

15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - 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....
Offensive Combinations and Shooting with 4 Players

Offensive Combinations and Shooting with 4 Players

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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

Combination and shooting in front of the goal followed by a 2v2

15 min
12-18 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U17
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....
Layoff in one-touch play during a passing sequence

Layoff in one-touch play during a passing sequence

12 min
12-18 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Drill consisting of a double sequence of simultaneous passes to work on one-touch layoffs and movement in tight spaces. Be sure to keep your head up!...
Speed Work and 1v1 Duels

Speed Work and 1v1 Duels

15 min
10-20 joueurs
Technical
U14 - 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....
1v1s on small goals with a defender chasing

1v1s on small goals with a defender chasing

15 min
12-24 joueurs
Technical
U15 - Seniors
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
U14 - U17
Intense and very interesting 2v1 exercise to work on offensive combinations. Consider offering progressions during the drill....
Shooting practice with slalom and body feint

Shooting practice with slalom and body feint

15 min
10-22 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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....
4v1 Rondo with Zone Changes

4v1 Rondo with Zone Changes

10 min
6-24 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U17
This rondo across 2 zones involving a total of 6 players is very dynamic and offers a very engaging exercise for your players. Be sure to clearly demonstrate the drill so that the rondo is as smooth as possible....
Shooting under pressure in 4v2 on 4 small goals

Shooting under pressure in 4v2 on 4 small goals

15 min
6-24 joueurs
Technical
U15 - Seniors
A small, dynamic drill that will allow your players to work on sequences in tight spaces and under pressure. Many variations are possible!...
Combine in a 2v1 to eliminate the direct opponent

Combine in a 2v1 to eliminate the direct opponent

15 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - 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....
Passing combination: one-two pass, back pass, and shooting

Passing combination: one-two pass, back pass, and shooting

15 min
8-24 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Ideal for working on passing and movement in a small area, this drill emphasizes quick play. Consider doubling the station if you have a large number of players....
Working on playing between the lines with a passing circuit

Working on playing between the lines with a passing circuit

15 min
8-20 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U17
Ideal technical drill to grasp playing between the lines, it will enable your players to perform a technical circuit while staying constantly engaged in the game....
One-two pass circuit with speed work

One-two pass circuit with speed work

18 min
6-12 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Discover a passing circuit with different combinations that should help your players improve on two aspects: the pure quality of the passes and the movement after making the pass....
Technical Circuit of Passing, Dribbling, and Shooting

Technical Circuit of Passing, Dribbling, and Shooting

18 min
6-12 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Exercise used by Pep Guardiola during a training session at Manchester City, it is ideal for working on different aspects: passing quality, off-the-ball runs to create space, and finally shooting....
1v1 and agility: support and change of direction

1v1 and agility: support and change of direction

12 min
6-12 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U15
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 - U17
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)....
Playing between the lines and following up the action

Playing between the lines and following up the action

15 min
4-12 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
Through a 1v1 with 2 attackers providing support, your players practice making penetrating passes to the attacker and following the action. The attackers also practice layoffs....
Passing Technique Training

Passing Technique Training

12 min
12-14 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U17
Ideal drill to train your players on execution and technique for making accurate passes....
Precision and speed of ball movement (1)

Precision and speed of ball movement (1)

16 min
10-15 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
Quick passing drill, your players work on precision and speed of ball movement....
Precision and speed of ball movement (2)

Precision and speed of ball movement (2)

16 min
10-15 joueurs
Technical
U12 - U15
Quick passing drill where your players work on both the accuracy and speed of ball movement....
Defensive play training for the fullback

Defensive play training for the fullback

15 min
8-12 joueurs
Technical
U15 - U19
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
U11 - U15
Ideal exercise to practice the back-pedal technique (defense) and dribbling (attack) with a point system to instill a good competitive spirit....
Defensive Techniques: Working on Interception

Defensive Techniques: Working on Interception

20 min
8-10 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U15
Exercise designed to improve both the quality of passes for attackers and the quality of interceptions for defenders. An ideal exercise for improving defensive positioning....
Oriented Controls – Ground Balls and Aerial Balls

Oriented Controls – Ground Balls and Aerial Balls

15 min
12-15 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U15
By asking the players to switch positions and position themselves correctly to receive the ball, your players practice anticipating and looking up before the teammate's pass and before controlling the ball....
Working on Duels: Offensive and Defensive Techniques (Version 3)

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

12 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U15
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 - U15
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 - U15
Ideal exercise for practicing duel techniques: dribbling and accelerating with the ball (offensive); backpedaling and positioning the attacker (defensive)...
Shot on the move without control

Shot on the move without control

15 min
10-12 joueurs
Technical
U11 - U15
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!...
1v1 Duel and Wing Play

1v1 Duel and Wing Play

20 min
10-14 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
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
U12 - U15
1v1 Duel Exercise with Gate Passing: Ideal for working on footwork, balance, and defensive technique....
Dribbling then cross: right foot, left foot

Dribbling then cross: right foot, left foot

15 min
8-14 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
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

Shot then defensive transition in 1v1

10 min
8-16 joueurs
Technical
U14 - U17
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

5v5 Shooting Game

20 min
10-14 joueurs
Technical
U13 - U17
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

4v4 and off-the-ball runs into space

15 min
8-10 joueurs
Technical
U10 - U15
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....