Exercises › Game exercise

Three-zone rondo

• 12 min
• 8–10 players
• 7v7
• 9v9
• 5v5
• Build-up play

Three zones in a row, about 8 x 8 m each. Four players stand in the two outer zones, two in each, and two defenders play in the middle zone. The two remaining players rest outside and are swapped in after a minute. The ball must be passed from one outer zone to the other across the middle zone without the defenders winning it. Players may also pass within their outer zone to create a good angle. If the team loses the ball, the player who lost it swaps places with a defender. The rondo trains availability, distances and playing quickly in a small area. Progression: two touches at most, or three defenders in the middle zone.

What the coach should look for

• Show yourself to the ball carrier before the ball arrives.
• First touch away from the defender.
• Play quickly, two touches at most.
• Talk: call where you want the ball.

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