Favorite Problem Solving Small-Sided Games
This session was presented at the 2020 Soccer Champions Coaches’ Clinic by Vince Ganzberg. This clinic for coaches of all levels features multiple days of world-class coaching instruction, on-field demos and special topic break-out sessions led by some of soccer's best minds. Find out more here.
Small-sided soccer games can enable players to experience and improve their problem solving and decision making skills.
21
Two teams, two large goals. Start off playing 1v1. If the player with the ball desires she/he can pass back to a teammate and bring them on. When that happens the team defending can also bring on a player. Continue to no larger than 4v4. Must land on 21 points or they go back to 11. Scoring: 1v1=1 point, 2v2=2 points, 3v3=3 points, 4v4=4 points.
Variation: Reverse the point system. Ex. 4v4=1 point, 3v3=2 points, etc
No Turn Game
Play a game to two goals. The only restriction is that a player can't physically turn with the ball. They can receive the ball sideways on. If they turn with the ball loss of possession.
Variation: Allow turning with the ball in the attacking half.
Hot Box
Play a game to two goals. Create a box approximately 10x10 (size can vary) in the middle of the field. Play a normal game except nothing can go inside the box. Note: The ball can go over the box. Play 1-2 intervals then the box becomes "warm" This means that players can go on but there is a 1 or 2 touch restriction inside.
Variation: Only allow attacking team to outnumber the opponent inside the box. Example: create a 2v1.
Secret Goals
Two teams, two large goals. Before start of play each team gets together and comes up with a way to score a goal. The other team doesn't know. They can try to recreate a goal they have seen in a World Cup, Champions League, NWSL, MLS, etc. As a coach you may opt to know ahead of time so you can see if they are trying to achieve their goal. Play 3-5 minute games then switch teams.
Variation: Give each team separately three different ways to score. They try to score in order. Example: 1-Score off a cross, 2, score after a ball that is laid back, 3, score within the 6 yard box.
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