Soccer
Defending
Defensive Recovery Runs
Soccer drill for defending training sessions
Defenders practise recovering toward goal, delaying the attack, and protecting central space.
What This Drill Improves
This soccer drill is best for intermediate players who need focused work on defending. It works well with 10 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.
Setup
Attackers start near halfway. Defenders start 5 m behind and to the side. Goalkeeper in goal.
Instructions
- Coach serves ball to attacker.
- Defender recovers at speed to get goal-side.
- Attacker tries to score quickly.
- Defender scores by delaying for 6 seconds or winning the ball.
Coaching Points
✓ Recovery run should protect the middle first.
✓ Slow down before contact to avoid over-running.
✓ Force attacker wide and away from goal.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Defenders diving in instead of delaying and controlling space.
- Teammates pressing individually rather than moving as a unit.
- Poor communication before the ball arrives.
Progressions: Make It Harder
→ Make it 2v2 recovery.
→ Add a second attacker arriving late.
→ Start defender further behind.
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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