Football · Game · Passing & receiving · Decision-making
4v4 to small goals
A small-sided game where a goal only counts after three passes in a row.
Start / 5
- Time
- 20 min
- Players
- 8–10
- Age
- U8+
- Area
- 30 × 20 m
- Equipment
- 2 small goals4 cones6 balls4 bibs
Setup
- Mark a 30 × 20 m pitch with a small goal at each end.
- Two teams of four; spare balls behind each goal.
How it runs
- Normal game with no goalkeepers.
- A goal only counts after three passes in a row by the scoring team.
- Games of 4 minutes, with a 1 minute rest between.
Coaching points
- Make the pitch big when you have the ball, small when you don't.
- The player on the ball needs two passing options.
- Shoot early once you have your three passes.
Common mistakes
- Everyone chasing the ball in a bunch.
- Passing sideways for the count, never forward.
Say it: “Big with the ball, small without it.”
Make it harder
- Five passes before a goal counts.
- Two-touch limit.
Make it easier
- Any goal counts.
- Add a neutral player who plays for the team with the ball.
Pairs well with
Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.