Exercises › Technique

The figure-eight: dribbling around cones with turns

• 10 min
• 2–20 players
• 5v5
• 7v7
• 9v9
• Technique & Skills

Two cones about 4 metres apart per player or pair. Everyone has a ball and dribbles in a figure-eight around the cones. Start simple: inside and outside of the foot, small touches, the ball close to the foot. Each session adds a new element: a turn with the sole, a turn with the outside of the foot, a feint at each cone, switching foot, more tempo and finally a passive defender chasing. The same drill gets a name ("the eight") that everyone recognises, so the time goes into making it harder rather than explaining it.

What the coach should look for

• Small touches and the ball close to the foot.
• Bend your knees when you turn.
• Big, clear movements when you feint.
• Look up between touches.

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