intermediatetransition15-20 minutes10-16 players

Counter-Attack Drill

Fast-paced drill developing attacking transition from defence to attack. Teaches quick decision-making, support play, and clinical finishing during counter-attacking moments.

U11-U12U13-U14U15+

Setup

Use three-quarters of a pitch with two goals. Position defenders in one half, attackers in the other. Start with defenders playing out under light pressure. When they win possession, they immediately pass forward to attackers who counter-attack towards goal with numerical advantage (e.g., 4v3). Attackers must finish quickly before recovering defenders get back. Rotate roles regularly.

Coaching Points

1Play forward quickly when you win the ball, do not delay
2Make forward runs immediately to support the counter-attack
3First pass must be accurate and into space ahead of runners
4Attack with pace and directness, exploit the space
5Finish clinically, do not waste counter-attacking opportunities
6Defenders recover at maximum intensity to prevent goals

Variations

✓Add time limits for attackers to score (e.g., 10 seconds)
✓Include more defenders to create realistic recovery scenarios
✓Require specific number of passes before shooting
✓Award bonus points for goals scored within time limit
✓Progress to even numbers to increase challenge

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a good counter-attack?

Good counter-attacks combine quick forward passing, supporting runs from multiple angles, pace and directness to exploit space, and clinical finishing. The first pass when winning possession is crucial to set the counter-attack in motion.

When should a team counter-attack?

Counter-attack when you win the ball whilst the opposition is committed forward, when space exists behind their defence, when you have numerical advantage through quick transitions, or when the opposition is disorganised and recovering.

How do I improve counter-attacking as a team?

Practice quick transitions from defence to attack, develop understanding of forward runs and passing combinations, emphasise speed of thought and execution, and work on finishing under pressure with limited time.

What is the difference between counter-attacking and possession football?

Counter-attacking prioritises quick, direct transitions when winning possession, exploiting space and pace. Possession football focuses on controlling the ball patiently and building attacks methodically. Teams can use both approaches depending on the game situation.

Related Drills

Attack to Defence Transition

Dynamic drill teaching immediate defensive response when possession is lost. Develops pressing intensity, recovery runs, and defensive organisation in transition moments.

Transition Game

Comprehensive small-sided game incorporating both attacking and defensive transitions. Develops quick thinking, adaptability, and execution during both transition moments.

Expert Advisors

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Related Keywords

counter-attacktransitionattacking transitionfast breakquick attackclinical finishingsupport runsfootball trainingattacking drillscoaching drillscounter-attacking footballtransition play

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