In this article, I’ll take you through seven essential ‘give and go’ soccer drills. These drills will hone your skills and enhance your passing skills on the field.
In soccer, the ‘Give and Go’ is a fundamental play that embodies teamwork and swift execution.
It involves a player passing the ball, then quickly moving to receive it back. This one-two exchange creates dynamic opportunities on the field.
So let’s get started!
The Basics of Give and Go in Soccer
In soccer, a ‘Give and Go’ is a rapid exchange of passes between two players. One player passes the ball to a teammate, then swiftly moves to receive it back.
This seamless interaction creates a swift and effective method to advance the ball and outmaneuver opponents. It’s a cornerstone play for cohesive team dynamics and goal-scoring opportunities.
Drill 1 – Two-Person Passing Drill
The Two-Person Passing Drill is straightforward to set up.
Place two players about 10 meters apart. One player starts with the ball.
The objective is simple: pass, move, and receive accurately. The player with the ball initiates by passing it to their partner. After the pass, they quickly reposition to receive the ball back.
- Maintain a brisk pace.
- Focus on precision over power.
- Encourage crisp, one-touch passes.
Repeat this exchange for a set duration or specific number of repetitions.
This drill enhances passing accuracy and quick decision-making, essential skills for effective ‘Give and Go’ plays.
Variations
- One-Touch Passing: Limit both players to one-touch passes only. This increases the tempo and demands precision.
- Increase Distance: Widen the distance between players to challenge their passing accuracy over longer ranges.
- Passing with Weak Foot: Encourage players to use their non-dominant foot for passing.
Drill 2 – Triangle Passing Drill
The Triangle Passing Drill requires three players to form a triangle shape.
Position them about 5 meters apart. One player starts with the ball.
The objective is to pass and receive accurately within the triangle. The player with the ball initiates by passing it to one of their two partners. After the pass, they quickly reposition to receive the ball back from the third player.
- Maintain a brisk tempo.
- Encourage crisp, one-touch passes.
- Make sure the triangle doesn’t break.
Continue this sequence, ensuring each player gets equal opportunities.
This drill refines passing precision and promotes quick decision-making.
Drill 3 – Wall Pass Drill
The Wall Pass Drill involves two players and a solid surface, such as a wall.
Position the players about 5 meters apart from the wall.
Player A (number 9 in the figure) starts with the ball and passes it firmly against the wall. The ball is received by Player B (number 10 in the figure) as it rebounds. Simultaneously, Player A quickly moves to receive the ball.
Player B, positioned near the wall, receives the rebounded ball and passes it back to Player A. Player B then moves to the spot vacated by Player A.
- Maintain a swift pace.
- Focus on accurate passing and receiving.
Continue this exchange for a set duration or specific number of repetitions.
This drill hones passing accuracy and develops combination play.
Advanced Techniques
- Increase Pace
- Use Weak Foot
- Introduce One-Touch Passing
- Use different surfaces like the inside and outside of the foot or even the thigh for passing and receiving.
- Incorporate Feints
Drill 4 – Overlapping Runs Drill
In soccer, overlapping runs refer to a strategic movement where a player moves forward past a teammate in possession of the ball. This creates an option for a ‘Give and Go’ play.
Start with three players positioned in a triangular formation, roughly 15-20 meters apart.
Player A begins with the ball and passes it to Player B.
As Player A passes, Player C initiates an overlapping run by sprinting forward and past Player B.
Player B receives the ball and quickly passes it to Player C, who is now in an advanced position.
Player B immediately follows their pass, making a run forward to receive a return pass from Player C.
Players rotate positions so that each gets a chance to initiate the overlapping run.
- Keep the drill at a brisk pace to simulate real-game conditions.
- Adjust the speed and intensity of the drill based on the skill level.
- Encourage players to execute overlapping runs from both sides to develop versatility.
Drill 5 – Through Ball and Follow Drill
Position two players about 15 meters apart. Player A starts with the ball.
Player A passes the ball ahead into space, creating an opportunity for Player B to run onto it.
As Player B is sprinting to receive the ball, Player A starts running in free space. Player B then passes the ball back to Player A, who has followed the play.
Rotate roles after a set number of repetitions to provide equal practice opportunities.
Variations:
- Increase Distance
- Adjust the angle of the through ball to challenge the receiving player’s ability to control it.
- Incorporate a goalkeeper to create a more realistic match scenario.
- Place cones or markers to simulate defenders.
- Encourage players to use their weaker foot.
- Set a time limit for each repetition.
Drill 6 – Zigzag Passing Drill
In The Zigzag Passing Drill, players practice precise passing while maneuvering the ball through a series of zigzagging cones or markers.
The primary goal is to maintain control and accuracy as the ball changes direction.
The Zigzag Passing Drill requires a defined area with markers, such as cones, placed in a zigzag pattern.
Position 2 players on the same side of the cones, and one on the opposite side.
Player A passes the ball to Player B (on the opposite side), and runs towards the second cone on the opposite side.
Player B then passes the ball to Player C on the opposite side, and runs towards the third cone on that side.
The objective is to pass the ball back and forth while navigating through the zigzag pattern. The passing player must accurately guide the ball around each marker.
- Players are encouraged to use both feet for passing and receiving.
- Emphasize precision over speed.
- Communicate and coordinate to maintain control.
If the ball hits a marker or goes out of bounds, players must reset and resume from the starting point.
This drill fosters crucial skills in ball control, passing accuracy, and maneuvering in confined spaces.
Drill 7 – Pressure and Release Drill
The Pressure and Release Drill requires three players, two acting as the attackers and the one as the defender. Set up a defined area with ample space for movement.
The purpose of this drill is to simulate real-game scenarios where a player receives the ball under defensive pressure and must release it quickly.
The defender applies controlled pressure on the attacker, creating a situation that demands swift decision-making and accurate passing.
The attacker’s objective is to receive the ball, maintain control under pressure, and release it to a teammate or into an open space.
This drill sharpens a player’s ability to handle high-pressure situations and make effective decisions on the field.
Variations:
- Add a Second Defender
- Vary the Defensive Intensity
- Challenge attackers to release the ball within a specific number of touches
- Adjust the size of the defined area to either compress or expand space
- Set a time limit for the attacker to receive and release the ball
Bonus Drill: The Belgium Give and Go Drill
The Belgium Give and Go drill focuses on sharp passing and rapid transitions. Players practice precise passes and quick movement. It simulates match situations where speed and accuracy are paramount.
It is a close variation of the zig zag drill discussed above.
Arrange players in a rectangular grid, ensuring ample space for movement.
The ball starts with Player A in one corner of the grid, while Player B positions themselves in the opposite corner.
Player A passes the ball to Player B and immediately sprints towards them.
Player B receives the pass and swiftly returns it to Player A. Simultaneously, Player B starts making a run towards the next corner.
While in motion Player A plays a one-touch through pass to player B who passes the ball to Player C while sprinting towards them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Give and Go Drills
- Insufficient Communication:
- Players often fail to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings and missed opportunities.
- Lack of Timing:
- Poorly timed passes and runs can disrupt the flow of the play.
- Overcomplicating the Pass:
- Some players attempt overly intricate passes, increasing the likelihood of turnovers.
- Failing to Read the Defense:
- Neglecting to assess the defensive positioning can result in turnovers or loss of possession.
- Inadequate Ball Control:
- Players may struggle to control the ball after receiving a pass, leading to disruptions in play.
- Standing Still After the Pass:
- Instead of making a dynamic run, some players remain stationary after passing, diminishing the play’s effectiveness.
- Neglecting Peripheral Awareness:
- Players may focus solely on the ball, ignoring potential passing options and limiting their choices.
- Rushing the Play:
- Impatience can lead to hurried passes or runs, reducing the likelihood of a successful “Give and Go”.
Final Thoughts on Give and Go Soccer Drills
Wrapping up, give and go in soccer is all about swift exchanges, precise passes, and seamless teamwork.
Stay focused on communication, timing, and ball control. These are the pillars of success in executing Give and Go plays effectively.
Make these give and go drills second nature, and soon you’ll find yourself creating opportunities and outplaying opponents effortlessly on the soccer field.
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