tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

Finish after an angled approach

Use this activity to work on finishing through repeated decisions with the ball. Start with the simpler version, watch the first round, and adjust the space or pressure to match the players in front of you.

By ToopTime · Updated 2026-09-21U9–U10 · U11–U12
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At a glance
Players2–8
Starting space18 × 15 yards; two start gates
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

Players approach a cone target from alternating left and right angles. Use one active shooting lane at a time.

How to play

Dribble diagonally, take a final preparation touch toward an open shooting line, and finish along the ground. Try either foot rather than insisting on one technique.

Make it easier

Reduce the approach distance and remove time pressure.

Add a challenge

Add a passive defender to close the nearest shooting line.

What to watch for

Players shoot from behind the ball with no room to swing. Make space with the preparation touch.

Take it into a game

Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same finishing decision without the activity’s extra conditions. Ask a player to describe one moment when it helped. Keep the next round simple if the skill disappears under pressure.

KEEP IT SIMPLE

Look for space. Keep the ball within reach.

Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.

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