Soccer Passing

3-2-1 Build-Up Structure

Develops structured build-up play from the back through three progressive zones.

25 minDuration
12 playersGroup size
AdvancedDifficulty
Half pitchSpace needed
Bibs, cones, ballsEquipment

Setup

Zone 1 (defensive): 2 CBs + DM. Zone 2 (mid): 2 CMs. Zone 3 (attack): 1 striker. Defenders in each zone.

Instructions

  1. GK or CB starts. Ball must travel from Zone 1 to Zone 2 to Zone 3.
  2. Defenders in each zone press the ball.
  3. Ball cannot skip zones.
  4. If ball reaches Zone 3, striker links play and finishes.

Coaching Points

✓ Zone 1 must find angles to play through — not just kick long.
✓ Zone 2: third-man combination to progress quickly.
✓ Zone 3: striker shows and connects with late runners.

Progressions

→ Reduce time allowed in each zone.
→ Defence can intercept between zones.
→ Full 10v10 using the structure.

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