Defending
Practice patient approaches, useful cover, interceptions, and recovery.
Where to start
A defender’s first success may be slowing the attack rather than winning the ball. Look for balance, protection of the route to goal, and help from a teammate. Add partners once the individual defender can approach without rushing past the ball.
9 resources
1v1 defending: slow the attacker
1v1 defending: slow the attacker: a practical youth soccer activity for 2–10 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Defend a side channel
Defend a side channel: a practical youth soccer activity for 2–10 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Pressure and cover in 2v2
Pressure and cover in 2v2: a practical youth soccer activity for 4–12 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Intercept a passing lane
Intercept a passing lane: a practical youth soccer activity for 3–6 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Recover toward the goal
Recover toward the goal: a practical youth soccer activity for 3–9 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
Defend two goals together
Defend two goals together: a practical youth soccer activity for 4–8 players, with setup, instructions, easier and harder variations.
U6–U8 practice: defend with patience
A 45-minute U6–U8 soccer practice with three activities, timed transitions, a final game, and a clear coaching focus.
U9–U10 practice: defend with patience
A 60-minute U9–U10 soccer practice with three activities, timed transitions, a final game, and a clear coaching focus.
U11–U12 practice: defend with patience
A 75-minute U11–U12 soccer practice with three activities, timed transitions, a final game, and a clear coaching focus.