Counter-pressing 6v3 with a central zone and four mini goals
Six reds combine around the outside to feed the team-mate in the central zone within five passes; three blues defend the in-between space and, if they win it, counter-attack into four mini goals while the reds counter-press and cover.
Los rojos circulan por fuera (máximo cinco pases) mientras los azules basculan.
Objective
Train organised counter-pressing after losing the ball: players near the ball press immediately and the distant ones cover the mini goals, while the attackers work on a firm inside pass and a fast break after a regain.
Organisation
25x25 m square with an 8x8 m central zone marked with cones. A mini goal in the middle of each side, facing inwards. Red team of six: five outside the central zone (free to move around the outer square) and one inside the zone. Three blues defend the space between the outside and the central zone. Spare balls in each corner.
Development
- 1Reds combine around the outside with a maximum of five passes and look for a pass into the central player; every pass that reaches him is worth a point.
- 2Blues may intercept any pass and press the central player as soon as he receives.
- 3If blues win the ball they counter-attack immediately into any of the four mini goals (goal = 1 point).
- 4On losing the ball, the nearest reds (especially the central player) press the ball carrier; the distant reds cover the mini goals closest to them.
- 5After each goal or ball out of play, restart with a new ball from a corner. Three-minute sets, rotating the three defenders.
Coaching points4
- The central player shows behind the line of three blues, in the passing window, not in front of it.
- Firm inside pass to the foot furthest from the defender; the central player shields the ball and lays off first time if pressed.
- After losing the ball: the nearest player presses in line with the mini goal the carrier is threatening.
- Distant players do not watch the ball: they run to cover their mini goal first, then step out to press.
Common mistakes3
- Aimless outside passes that let the blues keep their shape without running.
- Every red running to the ball after the loss and leaving three mini goals open.
- Blues dribbling towards the nearest mini goal after winning the ball even when it is covered, instead of switching sides.
Variations3
- Two players in the central zone to work on the inside wall pass.
- The inside-pass point only counts if the central player successfully lays off to an outside player.
- Replace the four mini goals with end lines on all four sides.
Progressions2
- Shrink the central zone to 6x6 m and allow 8 seconds to get the inside pass in, as in the original variation.
- Two touches maximum for the outside reds.
Regressions2
- 6v2 with a 10x10 m central zone for younger groups.
- No limit on outside passes.
Tips
- Change the central player every minute: it is the most cognitively demanding role.
- Count the outside passes out loud so the group feels the urgency.