How it works
- Who starts
- The attacker with the ball in each pair (in the diagram, A and the other two reds).
- Who takes part
- The whole group in pairs: each pair plays their 1v1 in the same square.
- What the ball does
- A takes on their defender and shoots at one of the two goals on the opposite side.
- How to score
- Goal in either goal on the opposite side, always after a take-on.
- When it ends
- On a goal or if the ball goes out.
- How it restarts
- The other player in the pair restarts.
- How players rotate
- No position rotation. After each goal or ball out, the other player in the pair restarts.
Number of players
2-14 players
Format
1v1 in pairs
Recommended
4 × 8 min
Rest 45s · High intensity
Space
Small-sided space
Space
20×20 m
Goal
Take on opponents and pick the open goal to finish in 1v1.
Description
20x20 m square with two small goals on each side. All pairs play their own 1v1 simultaneously inside the square. To shoot, the attacker must first complete a take-on. They can score in either of the two goals on the opposite side. This helps players feel confident taking on opponents and choosing the clearer goal.
Step by step
- 1
A carries the ball towards the defender and takes them on.
- 2
Look at both goals and shoot at the more open one.
Rules
Each pair plays their 1v1. You must complete a take-on before shooting. You can score in either goal on the opposite side. After a goal or if the ball goes out, the other player restarts.
Equipment
- 8 small goals
- 1 ball per pair
- Bibs
Physical focus
Recommended times by goal
- Change of direction: 4 × 1'30" · rest 0'45" · High intensityOrientativo
Rotation and restart
No position rotation: after each goal or ball out, the other player in the pair restarts. Pairs change every 2 minutes.
Coaching points
- Decide quickly.
- Pick the open goal.
- Accurate, low, placed shot.
Common mistakes
Shooting without a take-on.
How to correct: Remember the rule: take-on first.
Always going to the same goal.
How to correct: Look up after the take-on and choose.
Questions for the players
- “Which goal is more open?”
Levels
- A · easyOnly two goals, one on each side.
- B · standardAs described.
- C · advancedThree goals per side.
If you have fewer or more players
- With 6 fewer: 15x15 m square.
- With 2 more: 25x25 m square or two squares.
- With odd numbers: A trio plays 1v1 with a joker supporting the attacker.
Age
Variations
- Named take-on. The coach specifies which take-on is valid (e.g., bicycle kick, change of pace).
- Pair rotation. After each goal, the attacker changes pairs.