Defensive 1v1: steer and win the ball in a channel
1v1 duels in 15x8 m channels with two mini goals: the defender passes to the attacker and closes down immediately, steering them towards the side to win the ball. Individual defending technique.
Step 1Salida a presionar
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El defensor pasa y reduce distancia mientras el balón viaja.
Objective
Learn to defend 1v1: close distance fast, brake, steer the attacker onto the defender's strong side and pick the moment to tackle.
Organisation
15x8 m channels marked with cones and a mini goal at each end. Attacker at one end with a ball, defender at the other. Waiting lines behind each mini goal.
Development
- 1The defender starts the duel by passing a low ball to the attacker and closes down straight away.
- 2They close the distance at speed and brake two metres away with short steps, taking a side-on stance that closes the inside.
- 3The attacker tries to beat them and score in the mini goal; the defender steers them wide and tackles when the ball leaves the foot.
- 4If the defender wins the ball they counter towards the opposite mini goal and the attacker defends.
- 5Each duel lasts ten seconds at most; then rotate and swap roles. The pair with most goals in five minutes wins the channel.
Coaching points4
- Close down while the ball travels, not after it arrives.
- Brake with short steps and a low centre of gravity; never arrive at the attacker at full speed.
- Side-on body, front foot pointing inside, to steer the attacker wide.
- Tackle when the attacker's touch is heavy, not before.
Common mistakes3
- Approaching square with the legs open: the attacker goes through the middle.
- Diving in on the first feint.
- Standing five metres away without closing the distance.
Variations3
- Start the duel with the coach throwing the ball in.
- 2v2 in the same channel with the same rules.
- The attacker may score in either mini goal.
Progressions2
- Wider channel to give the attacker more advantage.
- A second attacker joins after five seconds.
Regressions2
- Narrower channel and attacker limited to two touches.
- No goals: just reach the end line.
Tips
- Pair players by speed and level so duels are balanced.
- Stop the drill to correct defensive positions with examples.