DEFENDING GAMES - US Youth Soccer

Line GameThe emphasis here is on maintaining good defensive team shape and horizontalcompactness.Four Goal GameThe emphasis here is on vertical compactness as well as communication and swiftmovement. The players must be aware of space and are they numbers up, even or down.All BackThe emphasis in this activity is on recovery runs, staying compact in the defending half of thefield and speed of transition onto defense.Basic GameNow let the players have a match – 4 v 4 with or without keepers up to 8 v 8 with goalkeepers.Do not coach at this time. Instead observe the players and their decision-making. Has yourcoaching had a positive effect upon their performance?Graphics provided by Larry Paul except where noted.References:1) The Football Association2) The Royal Netherlands Football Association3) The United States Soccer FederationUS Youth Soccer