tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

1v1 with a supporting passer

Use this activity to work on dribbling 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
Players3–12
Starting space15 × 12 yards; two end gates
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

An attacker and defender play inside. A neutral teammate supports from either touchline and can move along it.

How to play

The attacker may dribble past the defender or combine with the neutral to reach an end gate. Change all three roles every minute.

Make it easier

The defender starts several yards away.

Add a challenge

Limit the neutral to two touches while keeping the attacker unrestricted.

What to watch for

The attacker passes automatically even when space is open. Pause once to compare the dribbling lane and passing lane.

Take it into a game

Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same dribbling 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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