Split the Defenders Passing Game - U14 to U17 Advance Soccer Drills

This soccer drill is great for a little more advanced player from 11 years old to 14 years and focuses on passing to split two defenders.
Soccer Drill contributed by: Chris Johnson

Soccer Drill Info:
This is for ages U10, U12, U14, U16. Run this soccer drill with at least 6 players but no more than 18. This soccer drill should last approximately 20 minutes on a small field. Make sure you have the following equipment: cones, alternate jersey.

Soccer Drill Diagram

Setup:
Make a grid approximately 18x18 yards. Split team into three teams of two players per grid. Build multiple grids for additional games.

Instructions:
2 teams work together on the outside of the grid while the 2 defenders work on the inside of the grid. The four players on the outside keep possession and keep the ball from the defending team in the grid. The outside team scores a point when the ball is passed between two defenders (SPLIT) and is received by their teammate across the grid.

If a player on the attacking team makes a mistake, he and his partner become the defenders and the team winning the ball comes outside the cones and joins the other attackers.
When the defensive team gets split, they have to win the ball 1 extra time. So for example, say the 2 defenders get split 2 times before winning the ball, they must win the ball 3 times before switching with the attackers.

Variations:
- Limit the number of touches per possession
- Play the same game, but expand the grid 3-5 yards on all sides and have the players play inside the grid instead of outside the grid.

Coaching Points:
- Make sure the attacking players are moving for their partners and opening up in space.
- Make sure balls are passed with good pace and on target
- Encourage players to communicate verbally and with their body and hands.

Focus:
Technical Passing, Tactical Support, Tactical Possession, Tactical Communication