The numbers game: 1v1 to 3v3 on the coach's call
Two numbered teams wait on the touchlines of an 18x14 m pitch with mini goals; the coach rolls a ball in and calls one or more numbers: the players called sprint on and play a 1v1, 2v2 or 3v3.
Step 1¡Dos!
1 / 3
El entrenador rueda el balón y canta el 2: los dos jugadores con ese número salen a sprint.
Objective
Develop attacking and defending 1v1 in a competitive, reactive context: get to the ball first, take on and shoot, or recover goal-side and defend when the opponent has the ball.
Organisation
Pitch of about 18x14 m marked with discs and a mini goal in the middle of each end line. Two teams in different coloured bibs, each lined up along one touchline; every player gets a number (1 to 5 per team). The coach, with all the balls, stands at one end of the pitch.
Development
- 1The coach rolls a ball into the pitch and calls a number.
- 2The player from each team with that number sprints on: the first to reach the ball attacks the far goal and the other defends.
- 3The play ends with a goal, when the ball leaves the pitch or when the coach plays a new ball and calls another number.
- 4Players jog back to their touchline around the outside; goals are counted per team.
- 5The coach varies how many numbers are called: two numbers make a 2v2, three a 3v3, and different numbers per team create 2v1 or 3v2 situations.
- 6For a stronger defensive emphasis, teams wait on their own end line instead of the touchline, so the defender starts from his goal.
Coaching points4
- When attacking, take the defender on with conviction and shoot as soon as there is space.
- When defending, first recover between the ball and your goal, then press.
- Shield the ball with your body when the opponent arrives from behind.
- Listen: the number is the signal, nobody goes early.
Common mistakes3
- Going before hearing the full call and creating false overloads.
- The defender runs straight at the ball without blocking the path to goal.
- The attacker dribbles with the head down and misses the chance to shoot.
Variations3
- Call a colour or a maths sum (the answer is the number) to work on attention.
- Roll balls with spin, bounce or in the air to vary the first touch.
- Two pitches side by side to reduce waiting time.
Progressions2
- Call different numbers per team to create 2v1 or 3v2 and work on defending outnumbered.
- Add goalkeepers in larger mini goals.
Regressions2
- 1v1 only with the ball stationary in the middle.
- Reduce the pitch to 12x10 m to shorten the sprints.
Tips
- Assign numbers so that the duels are evenly matched.
- Roll the ball towards different sides so the same team is not always favoured.