How to Coach 4 on 4 Games in Soccer

In recent years, the world of coaching has become more and more enamored with the idea of teaching the game of soccer through games of 4v4. The idea was originally pioneered by the Dutch in the early eighties. The philosophy of 4v4 soccer training revolves around the idea that 4 players is the minimum number required to achieve all elements of the full game of soccer, without multiplication of roles or positions. The format allows for lots of touches on the ball, as well as lots of mobility from the players; it also offers an abundance of soccer problems that the players can use to further their understanding of the game.

Things You'll Need

  • Players
  • Cones
  • Pinnies
  • Goals
Show More

Instructions

  1. How to Coach 4 on 4 Games in Soccer

    • 1

      Ensure that appropriate size grids are set up to have as many games of 4 on 4 soccer going simultaneously as possible. This reduces waiting time for players and involves the maximum amount possible in a squad. With groups of between 8 and 16, it is easy to set up one 4v4 grid and one other exercise, and divide the squad into three equal groups, having 2 groups playing 4v4 and the other working on a skill, for example. This maximizes the training time in the best manner possible.

    • 2

      Let the game be the teacher. Use conditions applied to the rules of the game, the dimensions of the field, or perhaps even player numbers, in order to bring about whatever specific soccer problems need to be addressed. 4v4 games can also be directionless possession games if needs be, depending on the topic of the session.

    • 3

      Use line soccer to work on dribbling themes. Line soccer is where there are no goals, and points are scored when a team manages to dribble over an endline and control the ball. This creates multiple close control and 1v1 situations for both teams, as well as offering the chance for players to work on their decision-making about passing or dribbling.

    • 4

      Use wide grids to work on width and crossing, and short grids to work on shooting. Long grids encourage long passing and dribbling. Use man-marking conditions to focus on mobility, as well as defensive themes. There are many various possibilities for manipulating the 4v4 format to develop players.

    • 5

      Make sure the game teaches the players more than the coach. There are times when coaches can make coaching points, but generally these should be kept to natural stoppages in the game, rather than freezing the game to talk. Coach the freeze method sparingly, and allow the players to generate their own solutions from the game.