Defensive shape is a line. This drill teaches defenders to stay in a line while marking attackers and closing down the ball.
Equipment needed: One soccer ball, cones to mark a center line and attacking zone, 8 kids (4 attackers, 3 defenders, 1 keeper).
Setup: Mark a 40-by-30-yard zone. Three defenders stand in a line about 20 yards from goal. Four attackers spread across the field about 35 yards from goal.
How to run it:
- Attackers pass and advance toward the defending line.
- Defenders stay in line, jockeying and closing down.
- Attackers try to break the line or create a clear shot.
- If defenders win the ball, they clear it up field and reset.
- Play 10 attacking sequences.
What to look for: Line integrity and marking. Do defenders stay together or spread too wide? Do they mark their player or ball watch?
Variation: For younger kids (11), make the zone bigger and use two defenders. For older kids (12), add two midfielders behind the back line so it’s a realistic shape.