intermediatepassing10-15 minutes6 players

Rondo 4v2

Classic possession drill where four players keep the ball away from two defenders in a tight space. Develops passing accuracy, movement, and decision-making under pressure.

U11-U12U13-U14U15+

Setup

Mark out a 10x10 metre square (adjust size based on age and ability). Four players position themselves around the outside of the square, with two defenders inside. The four outside players must keep possession whilst the two defenders try to win the ball. When a defender wins the ball or forces it out of play, they swap with the player who made the mistake.

Coaching Points

1Keep your body open to see the whole picture before receiving
2Play with two touches maximum, one touch when possible
3Support the ball carrier with constant movement and angles
4Communicate clearly and early to help teammates
5Weight and accuracy of passes must be perfect in tight spaces
6Defenders should press intelligently, cutting passing lanes

Variations

✓Increase to 5v2 or 6v2 to make it easier for beginners
✓Reduce square size to increase difficulty
✓Add conditions like one-touch only or weak foot only
✓Create central zone where defenders must win the ball
✓Award points for consecutive passes (e.g., 10 passes = 1 point)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rondo in football?

A rondo is a possession drill where a group of players keep the ball away from a smaller group of defenders in a confined space. The term comes from Spanish football, where it is a fundamental training exercise used by top clubs like Barcelona.

What age group is rondo suitable for?

Rondos work well for players aged 10 and above who have basic passing and receiving skills. For younger players, start with larger spaces and fewer defenders (5v1 or 6v1) before progressing to 4v2.

How long should a rondo drill last?

Rondos are typically run for 10-15 minutes, with defenders rotating every 60-90 seconds or after they win the ball. This maintains intensity and ensures all players experience both attacking and defending roles.

What are the benefits of rondo training?

Rondos develop passing accuracy, first touch, decision-making under pressure, movement off the ball, communication, and defensive pressing. They simulate game situations where players must maintain possession in tight spaces whilst being pressured by opponents.

How do I make a rondo easier or harder?

Make it easier by increasing the space, adding more attacking players (5v2 or 6v2), or allowing more touches. Make it harder by reducing space, limiting touches (one-touch only), or using conditions like weak foot only.

Related Drills

Passing Diamond

Four-player passing pattern that develops combination play, movement, and technical execution. Players form a diamond shape and rotate positions after each pass sequence.

Wall Pass Combination

Two-player combination drill teaching the fundamentals of give-and-go passing. Develops timing, weight of pass, and movement to receive in space behind defenders.

Switch of Play Drill

Develops the ability to change the point of attack quickly by switching play from one side of the pitch to the other. Teaches long passing accuracy, vision, and exploiting space in wide areas.