Free practice Finishing & Attacking
Bologna Overlapping CM
Watch this drill in the libraryPractice description
Aim
Improve the timing of midfield overlaps, crossing and attacking runs into the penalty area.
How it works
This unopposed attacking pattern connects an overlapping central midfielder with two players arriving to finish. The sequence depends on coordinating the wide delivery with movement into the box.
• The central midfielder receives as the attacking sequence begins.
• The midfielder makes the overlapping run as the ball progresses forward.
• On reaching the wide attacking area, the midfielder delivers a cross into the box.
• The two attackers time their forward runs to meet that delivery.
• Finish from the cross, with the runners maintaining enough separation to offer distinct passing options.
Improve the timing of midfield overlaps, crossing and attacking runs into the penalty area.
How it works
This unopposed attacking pattern connects an overlapping central midfielder with two players arriving to finish. The sequence depends on coordinating the wide delivery with movement into the box.
• The central midfielder receives as the attacking sequence begins.
• The midfielder makes the overlapping run as the ball progresses forward.
• On reaching the wide attacking area, the midfielder delivers a cross into the box.
• The two attackers time their forward runs to meet that delivery.
• Finish from the cross, with the runners maintaining enough separation to offer distinct passing options.
Coaching points
• Timing the Overlap: The central midfielder should time their run so they are in position to cross when the attackers are ready to attack the ball. Proper timing and awareness are essential.
• Crossing Technique: Emphasize the quality of the cross. The ball should be delivered with the right amount of pace and precision, aiming for the attackers’ preferred areas.
• Movement of Attackers: Attackers should make runs into the box that create options for the cross, ensuring they adjust their position based on where the cross is coming from.
• Communication: Encourage players to communicate throughout the pattern. Attackers should give signals for where they want the ball played, and the midfielder should be aware of these cues to provide the best service.
• Crossing Technique: Emphasize the quality of the cross. The ball should be delivered with the right amount of pace and precision, aiming for the attackers’ preferred areas.
• Movement of Attackers: Attackers should make runs into the box that create options for the cross, ensuring they adjust their position based on where the cross is coming from.
• Communication: Encourage players to communicate throughout the pattern. Attackers should give signals for where they want the ball played, and the midfielder should be aware of these cues to provide the best service.
Progression 1
Add Pressure from Defenders
Introduce passive defenders who apply light pressure to the central midfielder and attackers as they execute the overlapping run and cross. The attackers must still focus on the timing and quality of their runs and finishing, but now with mild pressure.
Focus: Helps attackers maintain focus on their runs and finishing under slightly more challenging conditions.
Introduce passive defenders who apply light pressure to the central midfielder and attackers as they execute the overlapping run and cross. The attackers must still focus on the timing and quality of their runs and finishing, but now with mild pressure.
Focus: Helps attackers maintain focus on their runs and finishing under slightly more challenging conditions.
Progression 2
Add Finishing Option for Central Midfielder
Allow the central midfielder the option to either cross or take a shot themselves if the angle is right. This gives the midfielder a chance to be more dynamic and adds a decision-making element to their run.
Focus: Develops versatility in the midfielder's decision-making and encourages attackers to stay alert for both the cross and potential shot.
Allow the central midfielder the option to either cross or take a shot themselves if the angle is right. This gives the midfielder a chance to be more dynamic and adds a decision-making element to their run.
Focus: Develops versatility in the midfielder's decision-making and encourages attackers to stay alert for both the cross and potential shot.
