tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

Switch through a supporting teammate

Use this activity to work on width 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 2026-09-21U11–U12 · U13+
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At a glance
Players6–10
Starting space30 × 22 yards; three vertical lanes
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

Play 3v3 or 4v4. Mark lanes as visual guides, not places players must stay.

How to play

Score at either of two end gates. When one side is crowded, use a deeper support player to switch to the other lane. Keep the game moving.

Make it easier

Add a neutral in the central lane.

Add a challenge

Let defenders press the deeper support after the first touch.

What to watch for

The team attempts a long ball over pressure every time. Show how two shorter passes can change the angle.

Take it into a game

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

BUILT AROUND YOUR TEAM

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