Under 11s & Under 12s

Development of tactical understanding, set-piece awareness, and team cohesion in 9v9 football

The Under 11s and Under 12s age group represents a crucial developmental phase where children become ready for more detailed tactical instruction whilst continuing to build technical skills. The 9v9 format bridges the gap between 7v7 and full 11v11, allowing for positional learning without overwhelming young players. This is the age where team shape, set pieces, and game management begin to feature alongside continued technical work. Balance structured learning with player autonomy and creativity.

Development Priorities

1Tactical understanding of positions and roles
2Set-piece basics (corners, free-kicks, throw-ins)
3Team shape in attack and defence
4Effective communication on the pitch
5Decision-making under pressure
6Introduction to game management concepts
7Continued technical refinement

Session Structure

✓Sessions of 75-90 minutes appropriate
✓Include position-specific work occasionally
✓Opposed practices to replicate match scenarios
✓Set-piece practice integrated into sessions
✓Review key moments with brief video analysis
✓Finish with conditioned or full 9v9 games

Common Mistakes

!Treating this age like mini-adults tactically
!Over-coaching from the touchline during games
!Benching weaker players for important matches
!Spending excessive time on set-piece routines
!Expecting full tactical discipline and consistency
!Prioritising winning trophies over player development

Suggested Drills

✓Positional rotation in possession
✓Defending crosses as a back four
✓Build-up play from the goalkeeper
✓Pressing triggers and counter-pressing
✓Attacking overloads (3v2, 4v3 scenarios)
✓Transition boxes (quick attack-defence switch)

Ask FootballGPT

“What formation is best for 9v9 football?”

“How do I teach defending as a unit at this age?”

“When should I introduce tactical instructions?”

“How important are set pieces for Under 11s and 12s?”

Frequently Asked Questions

What formation works best for 9v9?

A 3-2-3 or 2-3-2 formation provides good balance and learning opportunities. However, formation is less important than principles. Teach children the concepts of defensive shape, midfield control, and attacking width rather than rigid positional play.

How much tactical instruction is appropriate at this age?

Children can understand and apply basic tactics, but keep instructions clear and limited. Focus on 2-3 key principles per session, demonstrate visually, and allow players to problem-solve. Avoid overloading them with information or constant corrections during games.

Should I start specialising players in positions?

You can begin to identify natural positions for children, but continue rotating regularly. Let players experience different roles, as late developers may surprise you. Avoid pigeonholing children into one position permanently at this age.

How do I teach set pieces without wasting session time?

Keep it simple and brief. Spend 10 minutes on set-piece shape and delivery, practice occasionally rather than weekly, and trust players to execute basics. Elaborate routines are unnecessary and take time away from more valuable open-play practice.

What are the key development priorities for this age?

Balance technical development with tactical understanding. Continue refining passing, receiving, and 1v1 skills whilst introducing positional awareness, team shape, and communication. Foster decision-making, creativity, and a love for playing the game.

Related Age Groups

🌳Under 9s & Under 10s 💪Under 13s & Under 14s 🎯Under 15s & Under 16s

Expert Advisors

🎓

Academy Mind

Academy pathway U13-U18

📈

Youth Rising

Academy pathway for teenagers

⚽

General Coach

All-round coaching

under 11s coachingunder 12s football9v9 footballtactical developmentyouth tacticsset pieces youthteam shapepositional playgame managementtransition playpressing footballbuild-up play

Get a Under 11s & Under 12s Session Plan

Tell FootballGPT your player count, focus area, and ability level for a tailored session plan.

Try FootballGPT Free