Free practice Small Sided Games · Ball Mastery & Technical
Villarreal Dribble & Shoot SSG
Watch this drill in the libraryPractice description
Aim
Improve choosing between a forward pass and a dribble to break the opposition's line.
How it works
This directional game gives teams two different ways to score at their attacking end. A mini goal rewards an accurate pass, while a pole gate rewards carrying the ball through.
• Play the directional game using the chosen team size, from 4v4 to 7v7.
• Build the attack and assess which target offers the clearest route.
• Score by passing into the mini goal on one side of the end line.
• Alternatively, score by dribbling through the poles on the opposite side.
• Use switches of play and supporting movement to create space for the appropriate passing or dribbling option.
Improve choosing between a forward pass and a dribble to break the opposition's line.
How it works
This directional game gives teams two different ways to score at their attacking end. A mini goal rewards an accurate pass, while a pole gate rewards carrying the ball through.
• Play the directional game using the chosen team size, from 4v4 to 7v7.
• Build the attack and assess which target offers the clearest route.
• Score by passing into the mini goal on one side of the end line.
• Alternatively, score by dribbling through the poles on the opposite side.
• Use switches of play and supporting movement to create space for the appropriate passing or dribbling option.
Coaching points
• Line-Breaking Decisions: Players must assess when to play through, around, or over the opposition using dribbles or incisive passing.
• Switch of Play Awareness: Encourage quick transitions from one side of the pitch to the other to unbalance the defense and create space to attack.
• Weight and Timing of Passes: Precision and timing are essential when targeting the mini goal. Passes should be sharp, accurate, and well-weighted.
• Dribble Recognition: Players should recognize when the space opens up to carry the ball forward through the poles—especially when defenders are stretched or caught shifting.
• Switch of Play Awareness: Encourage quick transitions from one side of the pitch to the other to unbalance the defense and create space to attack.
• Weight and Timing of Passes: Precision and timing are essential when targeting the mini goal. Passes should be sharp, accurate, and well-weighted.
• Dribble Recognition: Players should recognize when the space opens up to carry the ball forward through the poles—especially when defenders are stretched or caught shifting.
Progression 1
Bonus Point for Combo Play:
Award an extra point if a team scores after switching play at least once before the final action.
Focus: Reinforces the habit of switching play and stretching the opposition to create attacking space.
Award an extra point if a team scores after switching play at least once before the final action.
Focus: Reinforces the habit of switching play and stretching the opposition to create attacking space.
Progression 2
Touch Limit in Middle Third:
Restrict players to 2 touches in the central area of the pitch.
Focus: Increases tempo and decision-making speed, encouraging early recognition of line-breaking opportunities.
Restrict players to 2 touches in the central area of the pitch.
Focus: Increases tempo and decision-making speed, encouraging early recognition of line-breaking opportunities.
