Exercises › Game exercise

Match – free play

• 25 min
• 6–22 players
• 3v3
• 5v5
• 7v7
• 9v9
• 11v11

An open, unstructured match game with no theme or specific rules beyond the usual game format. The group is split in two and plays a real match, which gives the players the chance to apply what they have practised, make their own decisions and just have fun with football. Works well as the closing part of a training session or as a whole session in itself when you just want to play.

What the coach should look for

• Split the players into two teams that are as even as possible in terms of numbers and level.
• Let the game flow – intervene as little as possible and let the players solve situations themselves.
• Avoid detailed instructions during play, save comments for the breaks.
• Swap teams or positions at half-time if time allows, so everyone faces different opponents.
• Works well as a closing part of the session, where what you have practised is put into context.

PåPlan is a free planning tool for youth football coaches. Open the app