tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

3v2 transition waves

Use this activity to work on transitions 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
Players7–12
Starting space25 × 20 yards; two goals
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

Three attackers face two defenders. Two resting players wait safely beyond the opposite end, away from the goal mouth.

How to play

After a shot or clear turnover, two attackers leave and the remaining attacker defends with one teammate against the next three. Walk through the rotation before speeding up.

Make it easier

Pause between waves and name the next players.

Add a challenge

Restart the next attack promptly once everyone is safely in place.

What to watch for

Players are confused about roles. Use colored bibs and freeze the rotation until each person knows their next job.

Take it into a game

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