U11–U13 · Team shape · 20 min
2-3-1, Compact, Travel
Play 7v7 in a 2-3-1 that stays 25 yards from back to front. The spare man is always the 6 or a CB. The 9 does not defend in their own six.
Attack DefendSolid = passDashed = run
- Space
- 50×35 yards, two goals
- Equipment
- 12 cones · pinnies · 2 goals · 4 balls
Organization
Two teams of 7 (6 + GK). Normal rules. Freeze twice per half to check distances. 2 × 8-minute halves.
Whiteboard
Diagram notes
North goal. GK, two CBs, three across (wide, 6, wide), 9. Opponents in a similar 2-3-1. Show a slide toward the right channel.
Coaching points
- CBs split when we have it, tuck when we don’t. Never both on the six-yard.
- The three in midfield is a triangle, not a line. One is always higher.
- The 9 presses the ball-side CB, not both.
- When the ball travels, the whole 2-3-1 slides. Nobody defends in a different county.
Phrases to use
- “25 yards, not 50.”
- “Triangle, not a line.”
- “The 9 presses one, not two.”
- “The block travels.”
Progressions
- Must play in behind after three passes.
- No talking for five minutes.
- Winner stays, losers do a 6.
Regressions
- Freeze on every turnover.
- Attacking team two-touch.
- Make the field 5 yards narrower.
Common mistakes
The 9 chases the GK and the CBs have a 40-yard gap.
Press the ball-side center-back. The other one is the 6’s problem if they receive.
Both CBs drop into the six and a cutback is free on the D.
One can drop. The other holds the line of the penalty spot.
Wide midfielder stays high on the far side.
Tuck. Compact first, then press.