4v4+4 possession game: playing through the middle
Possession game from the FIFA Talent Coach Programme: 20x20 m square, 4v4 inside and four neutrals, two inside and two at the ends as targets. The ball must progress from one target to the opposite one and is obliged to go through the centre.
El objetivo O juega al 1, que ha recibido perfilado en banda.
Objective
Secure possession in congested areas and progress the ball through the press centrally, simulating the build-up from defence into central midfield and playing from wide areas back inside.
Organisation
20x20 m square marked with cones. Three teams of four: two teams inside (4v4) and four neutrals: two at opposite ends of the square, outside the area, acting as targets that give direction to play; two inside who must occupy the middle so there is always an inside option. Spare balls next to the targets.
Development
- 1The target at one end releases the ball and the team in possession tries to play it to the target at the opposite end.
- 2Key rule: the ball cannot go from the target to an inside player in a wide position and from there to the opposite target; the pass must be played into the centre (inside neutral or a central team-mate) before progressing.
- 3Every target-to-target connection that respects the rule scores a point; the ball then comes back the other way without stopping.
- 4If the defending team wins the ball they become the possession team and attack the other target.
- 5Rotate the three teams every 4 minutes so everyone plays as neutrals.
Coaching points4
- Do not condense play on one side: use width and depth so the defenders cannot cover the passing lines.
- Inside neutrals offer between defenders with the body open towards the far target.
- Pass into the centre with pace and to the far foot so the receiver can turn.
- After playing inside, the passer follows the ball and offers the lay-off.
Common mistakes3
- Going around the press down the sides instead of through the middle.
- Inside neutrals hiding behind a defender.
- Targets playing long directly to the other target without respecting the rule.
Variations3
- Two touches for the inside neutrals.
- Double points if both inside neutrals are involved.
- Targets may enter the square with the ball under control.
Progressions2
- Reduce the square to 18x18 m.
- One touch for the targets.
Regressions2
- Enlarge to 25x25 m with unlimited touches.
- Allow the direct target-to-target pass while they learn the rule.
Tips
- Remind them at every stoppage that the focus is the unit's shape, not the individual.
- Three clearly different bib colours to read the rotation quickly.