Soccer
Finishing
Finishing From Cutbacks
Soccer drill for finishing training sessions
Attackers practise finishing from low cutbacks after wide players reach the byline.
What This Drill Improves
This soccer drill is best for intermediate players who need focused work on finishing. It works well with 10 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.
Setup
Wide servers start near the byline. Finishers start at the edge of the box and make late runs.
Instructions
- Wide player drives to the byline.
- Finisher delays run then attacks the cutback zone.
- Server cuts ball back along the ground.
- Finisher shoots first time if possible.
Coaching Points
✓ Finisher should arrive late, not wait in the box.
✓ Cutback should be firm and along the ground.
✓ Aim finish low into corners.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Players rushing the finish before setting their body shape.
- Shots aimed without looking at the goalkeeper or target area.
- Runs arriving too early, making the finish predictable.
Progressions: Make It Harder
→ Add a recovering defender.
→ Add a second finisher at the far-post zone.
→ Server must beat a defender before cutback.
Regressions: Make It Easier
Start without defenders, then add pressure once the movement pattern is clear.
Allow extra touches until players understand the timing.
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