Football · Defending · Pressing · Game

Press and cover 3v3

The first defender presses the ball and the second covers. Swap roles after each goal.

A1A2A3D1D2D3C
Start / 5
Time
15 min
Players
6–8
Age
U11+
Area
25 × 20 m
Equipment
2 small goals6 balls3 bibs

Setup

  1. Mark a 25 × 20 m pitch with a small goal at each end.
  2. Two teams of three; the coach feeds balls in from the side.

How it runs

  1. The coach plays a ball to one team; the other team defends.
  2. The nearest defender presses and the next one covers behind at an angle.
  3. Play to a goal or out of play, then the coach feeds the next ball in.

Coaching points

  • First defender, close the ball down fast, then slow down and stay on your feet.
  • Second defender, stand where you can reach the attacker if they go past.
  • Talk. "I've got ball", "I'm covering".

Common mistakes

  • Both defenders press the ball at the same time.
  • The cover stands level with the first defender, not behind.

Say it: “One presses, one covers. Talk.”

Make it harder

  • Attackers get a point for a pass that splits the two defenders.
  • Make the pitch wider.

Make it easier

  • 3v2, so the defenders only learn press and cover.
  • Attackers walk for the first 3 seconds.

Pairs well with

Reviewed by the Sportdify coaching team.