Soccer Defending

1v1 Defending Channel

Defenders practice staying goal-side and delaying attackers in a narrow channel.

15 minDuration
8 playersGroup size
BeginnerDifficulty
10×20 mSpace needed
Cones, bibs, ballsEquipment

Setup

10×20 m channel. Attacker starts at one end, defender in the middle. Two mini goals at bottom.

Instructions

  1. Attacker tries to beat the defender and score.
  2. Defender must stay on their feet and delay.
  3. If defender wins ball, they dribble to the end line.
  4. Rotate attacker and defender every 3 turns.

Coaching Points

✓ Defender should approach at an angle, not head-on.
✓ Stay on feet — don't dive in.
✓ Force the attacker to weaker foot.

Progressions

→ Add a second defender (2v1).
→ Defender must score by dribbling through poles after winning ball.
→ Attacker gets 3 touches max.

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1v1 defending dribbling channel
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