9v9+2 possession game with neutral keepers in three lanes
Possession game from the FIFA Talent Coach Programme: 30x20 m split into three lanes, two teams of nine in a 3-3-3 (one player from each line per lane) and two neutral goalkeepers at the ends. Always pass and move, no offside.
El portero comodín 1 juega al 1 en el carril superior.
Objective
Reinforce collective tactical intelligence: adjust position and the three-line block to keep possession under pressure, receive in free space and switch the point of attack.
Organisation
30x20 m area divided lengthways into three equal lanes. Two teams of nine in a 3-3-3, with one player from each line in each lane as a starting reference (they may change lanes during play). Two neutral goalkeepers, one at each end, play with the team in possession. Three coaches: one leads, two talk to their team and feed balls.
Development
- 1The coach releases the ball to one team, which must keep possession and play the ball from one neutral keeper to the other.
- 2Every keeper-to-keeper connection through at least three team players scores a point.
- 3The team out of possession tries to win the ball; on winning it roles swap immediately and the keepers play with them.
- 4No offside, to encourage depth; if the ball goes out the coaches feed a new one without stopping.
- 5Always pass and move, asking for the ball from a team-mate: subtle diagonal and horizontal movements to open lines. Four-minute sets, three or four sets.
Coaching points4
- Never stand still: keep changing position without crowding a single lane.
- Receive in free space and switch play to the lane with fewer opponents.
- The unmarked receiver tries to turn; the passer communicates with the position and weight of the pass.
- Short diagonal and horizontal movements to create passing lines, not long runs.
Common mistakes3
- Crowding the ball lane and leaving the far lane empty.
- Repetitive movements that drag the defender towards the ball carrier.
- Forgetting the neutral keepers as a safe outlet when the press bites.
Variations3
- Neutral keepers must play one touch.
- Double points if the ball changes lane twice before reaching the keeper.
- 3-2-4 instead of 3-3-3 to work another structure.
Progressions2
- Two touches maximum for outfield players.
- Reduce to 25x18 m.
Regressions2
- Enlarge to 35x25 m and unlimited touches.
- Neutral keepers may use their hands to guarantee the outlet.
Tips
- Coaches with balls on the sidelines guarantee continuity with no breaks.
- Explain the 3-3-3 with three bib colours per line if the group needs it.