1v1 choose the mini goal (FC Barcelona)
Simplified situation from the Barça academy: the defender passes to the attacker and steps out to press; the attacker must read the defender's position and score in one of two mini goals on a 20x15 m area. Take-on, change of direction and decision.
Step 1Pase y salida
1 / 3
El defensor pasa con tensión al atacante y sale a cerrar.
Objective
Beat the defender in the 1v1 by reading their position: attack the free side, change direction if they close it and finish in the mini goal they leave uncovered.
Organisation
20x15 m rectangle. Two mini goals (or two 2 m pole gates) on one end line, about 10 m apart. Ten players: five attackers in bibs on the opposite end line and five defenders next to the mini goals with the balls. Two sets of 6 minutes with a change of roles.
Development
- 1The first defender plays a firm pass to the first attacker, waiting on the opposite end line, and immediately steps out to close down.
- 2The attacker takes a forward first touch and attacks the defender at speed, looking for the 1v1 in the middle so both goals stay within reach.
- 3Depending on which side the defender closes, the attacker picks the free mini goal: change of direction or a move and a low finish from inside 6 m.
- 4If the defender wins the ball or it goes out, the play ends; the defender can score a point by dribbling to the attacker's starting line.
- 5Rotation: attacker and defender join the back of the opposite line in the continuous version, or each returns to their own line and roles switch at the end of the set.
- 6Individual score: whoever wins the most duels across the two sets.
Coaching points4
- First touch forward and into space: the attacker gains ground before the defender arrives.
- Attack through the middle with the ball on the foot furthest from the defender; decide late, once the defender has committed.
- Change direction with the outside of the foot and accelerate to the goal left free.
- Defender: close fast but slow down two metres away, side-on, and force the attacker one way.
Common mistakes3
- Choosing the goal before seeing the defender and dribbling in a straight line.
- A backward or sideways first touch that gives the defender time.
- Shooting from distance and too hard at a mini goal.
Variations3
- Defender with the ball in hand: rolls it out and steps up.
- 2 m pole gates instead of mini goals for more precision.
- The pass comes from the coach to either player: whoever receives attacks.
Progressions2
- Second defender entering late on a signal (1v1 plus recovering defender).
- 2v2 with the same goals and rules.
Regressions2
- Passive defender who may only cover one goal without tackling.
- Shorter area (15x12 m) and wider goals.
Tips
- Coach with a question: “which goal is the defender giving you?”.
- Balls at each mini goal so defenders can serve without pause.