tooptimeTIME TO PLAY
Soccer drills

Win the ball, then find a teammate

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 2026-09-21U9–U10 · U11–U12
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At a glance
Players4–8
Starting space18 × 18 yards; one outside support
Suggested time6–10 minutes, including short breaks
EquipmentBalls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used

Set it up

Play 2v2 or 3v3 inside with a neutral support player outside. Rotate the support role regularly.

How to play

When a team wins possession, it earns a point by completing a controlled pass to a teammate or the neutral. Continue play after the pass.

Make it easier

Give the new ball carrier two seconds without pressure.

Add a challenge

Remove the protected seconds and let opponents react immediately.

What to watch for

The winning player clears the ball without looking. Celebrate the first controlled action after a regain.

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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