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beginnerpossession10-15 minutes8-16 players

Keep Ball Overload

Possession game creating numerical superiority to develop confidence in keeping the ball. Teaches players to exploit overloads and make quick decisions when in possession.

U8-U10U11-U12U13-U14U15+

Setup

Mark out a 20x20 metre area. Create teams with numerical advantage (e.g., 6v3, 7v4). The larger team keeps possession whilst the smaller team presses. Award points for consecutive passes. When the defending team wins the ball, they play with new teammates waiting outside to create their own overload. Rotate defending teams every 90 seconds.

Coaching Points

  • 1Use numerical advantage to play simple, safe passes
  • 2Spread out to create maximum passing options
  • 3Play two-touch maximum, one-touch when possible
  • 4Move after passing to remain available
  • 5Defenders should press intelligently despite the disadvantage
  • 6Build confidence in keeping possession under less pressure

Variations

  • ✓Reduce space to increase difficulty
  • ✓Progress to even numbers once players are confident
  • ✓Add conditions like weak foot only or directional play
  • ✓Include small goals for defenders to counter-attack into
  • ✓Award bonus points for switching play or playing through lines

Frequently Asked Questions

Why use overload possession drills?

Overload drills build confidence in players by giving them numerical superiority, making it easier to keep possession. This allows them to focus on technique, movement, and decision-making without the intense pressure of even-number scenarios.

What age is overload possession suitable for?

Overload possession works for players from 8 years old upwards. Younger players benefit from the success and confidence it brings, whilst older players can use it for technical warm-ups or to practice specific patterns.

How do I progress from overload possession?

Progress by reducing the numerical advantage (7v4 to 6v4), reducing space, adding touch restrictions, or moving to even numbers once players demonstrate confidence and technical competence in keeping possession.

What should defenders learn from overload drills?

Even when outnumbered, defenders learn to press intelligently, cut passing lanes, work together, and force mistakes rather than diving in. These situations teach defensive patience and organisation despite the disadvantage.

Related Drills

Possession Square

Small-sided possession game developing ball retention, movement, and quick decision-making under pressure. Teams work to keep the ball in a confined area against pressing opponents.

Positional Play Grid

Advanced possession drill teaching positional relationships and spatial awareness. Players learn to create passing angles through intelligent positioning and movement within structured zones.

Expert Advisors

⚽

General Coach

All-round coaching

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Grassroots Guru

Youth football U5-U12

⚽

General Player

All-round player development

Related Keywords

possessionnumerical superiorityoverloadpassing drillconfidence buildingball retentionyouth footballcoaching drillsfootball trainingsmall-sided gamekeeping possessionpassing accuracy

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Keep Ball Overload - Football Coaching Drill | FootballGPT