tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

Three-player overlap decision

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
Players3–9
Starting space20 × 15 yards; wide channel
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

A central passer, wide receiver, and supporting runner begin with a ball centrally.

How to play

Pass wide. The supporting runner overlaps outside the receiver, who chooses to pass into the run or carry inside. Walk back and rotate the roles.

Make it easier

Rehearse without opposition and name the passing target.

Add a challenge

Add a defender who decides whether to follow the overlapping run.

What to watch for

The runner goes too early and waits beside the receiver. Time the run so it arrives as the receiver can look up.

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.

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