Exercises › Game exercise

2v1 to 2v2 – combination play in four phases

• 10 min
• 7v7
• 9v9
• 11v11
• 5v5
• Build-up play
• Finishing & Scoring

A four-phase session that builds combination play and off-the-ball movement. Phase 1: a player faces a defender 1v1 with help from a supporting bounce player, turning it into a 2v1. Phase 2: play switches to 2v2 at high tempo, with teams looking for combinations to get to a shot. Phase 3: the same 2v2, but goals only count if the shot is taken in the opponent's half. Phase 4: the same game, but the finish must now be taken first-time. Source: Pelota Academy (Pro Footballer Skills).

What the coach should look for

• Phase 1: look for support from the bounce player to create a 2v1.
• Phase 2: don't stand on the same line as your teammate – vary depth and width.
• Phase 3: carry the ball forward before finishing – don't settle too early.
• Phase 4: be creative with your through passes and finish first-time.
• Create space straight after every pass – run away from the passing lane, not behind it.

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