Here’s a simple tactical game that can work for almost any age group, U10 to U18+. It creates a naturally competitive atmosphere crucial to raising the level of players’ games. The game creates lots of goal-scoring opportunities and lots of pressured situations in which players have to perform technical skills and make decisions in tight spaces.
5 VS 5 THREE MINUTE GAME
Why?
- Works for almost any age group.
- A naturally competitive game. Players will want to play to win.
- Produces lots of shots, goal-scoring, and goal-stopping chances.
- Teaches speed of play, finishing, and movement without the ball
How?
- Play 5 vs. 5 (or more) in the penalty box on a regulation goal. You can use a goalkeeper, targets in the goal (in the corners), or leave the goal free (goals must be scored on the ground). Extra players or teams waiting to play can do skill drills on a tactical game with smaller numbers (2 vs. 2) outside the field.
- Play two three-minute games; one team attacks and another team defends. The attacking team tries to score as many goals as they can in the time limit. The defending team tries to prevent goals by possessing the ball.
- The losing team goes off. Or, if the two games end in a draw, the newer team stays on.
- Play futsal rules – when the ball goes out of bounds, the other team plays it in.
What to Say?
- Not much. Let them play.
- The attacking team should try to create goal scoring opportunities quickly. “Look to shoot,” or “Look to make the killer pass.”
- You might have to require that the defensive team play the ball in within a certain time limit (so they can’t stall the game for too long) or else you will add an extra minute to the attacking team’s time.
Does anyone have any suggestions out there about coaching this game or similar tactical games? What are some good progressions or other coaching points?
