This soccer defending drill is great for teaching young players how to defend when they are the closest player to the opponent with the ball.
Setup
* You will need the attacking third of a field with a full size goal.
* Split the team into two groups of defenders who start on both sides of the goal.
* Two attacking players are positioned outside the penalty area on both sides of the field, with a ball.
Instructions
1. On the coaches command the first defender from each line closes down the attacker.
2. You should focus on a fast, controlled approach while positioning their body between the ball and the middle of the goal.
3. Let every player go 4-5 times or until they are comfortable with approaching the attacker.
Variations
* Have the defenders pass the ball to the attacker and focus on the same items above.
Coaching Points
* Fast, Controlled approach
* Get body positioned between the goal and the ball.