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advancedpassing15-20 minutes8-16 players

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.

U13-U14U15+

Setup

Use half a pitch or large area (40x30 metres minimum). Set up cones to create three vertical zones (left, centre, right). Position players in groups on each side. Start with the ball in one wide area, where players combine with quick passes. On the coach's call or after a set number of passes, a player switches the ball to the opposite wide zone with a long diagonal pass. The receiving group controls and continues the pattern.

Coaching Points

  • 1Scan before receiving to identify space on the far side
  • 2Weight and accuracy of the switch pass are crucial
  • 3Use the inside or outside of your foot for lofted passes
  • 4Receive the switch pass with your first touch out of your feet
  • 5Switch when the defence is overloaded on one side
  • 6Build up play patiently before switching to create space

Variations

  • Add defenders in central zone who can intercept switch passes
  • Include goals at each end and finish after switching play
  • Require specific number of passes before switching is allowed
  • Award points for successful switches or goals scored
  • Add conditions like outside foot switch passes only

Frequently Asked Questions

What is switching play in football?

Switching play means changing the point of attack from one side of the pitch to the other, typically with a long diagonal pass. This exploits space in wide areas when the opposition defence is overloaded or compact on one side.

When should a team switch play?

Switch play when the opposition is overloaded on one side, when space opens up on the far side, when the press is intense on the ball side, or when you need to create attacking opportunities from a different angle.

How do I improve my long passing for switching play?

Practice lofted passes using the inside and outside of both feet. Focus on striking through the bottom half of the ball to generate lift. Work on accuracy and weight so the receiving player can control the ball comfortably.

What makes an effective switch of play?

An effective switch requires vision to spot the space, technical ability to execute the long pass accurately, and movement from players on the far side to receive in good positions. The ball must arrive with the right weight and trajectory.

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Related Keywords

switch of playlong passingdiagonal passchanging point of attackwide playpossession footballtactical awarenesspassing rangeexploiting spaceattacking patternsfootball tacticstechnical training

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Switch of Play Drill - Football Coaching Drill | FootballGPT