Soccer Technique

First Touch Directional Squares

Soccer drill for technique training sessions

Players improve first touch by receiving across the body and moving into a new direction.

15 minDuration
8 playersGroup size
BeginnerDifficulty
20x20 mSpace needed
Cones, ballsEquipment

What This Drill Improves

This soccer drill is best for beginner players who need focused work on technique. It works well with 8 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.

Setup

Create four 8x8 m squares inside a larger 20x20 m area. Players work in pairs with one ball.

Instructions

  1. Server passes into the receiver inside a square.
  2. Receiver takes first touch out of the square toward a called direction.
  3. Receiver dribbles into the next square and passes back.
  4. Switch roles every 90 seconds.

Coaching Points

✓ Check shoulder before the pass arrives.
✓ First touch should move the ball away from pressure.
✓ Open body shape and receive on the back foot.

Common Mistakes to Watch For

  • Players losing focus on the main coaching point.
  • The drill area being too large or too small for the group.
  • Progressing the drill before the basic pattern is clean.

Progressions: Make It Harder

→ Coach calls the direction late.
→ Limit to two touches.
→ Add a passive defender to pressure the first touch.

Regressions: Make It Easier

Walk through the pattern first, then build up to game speed.
Use larger targets or more space to help players succeed early.

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first touch receiving technique movement
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