Build-up from the Back: 4+GK v 3
Build-up practice featuring a goalkeeper and back four against three pressing players. Objective: find the spare player and advance across the halfway line via a pass or dribble.
In Possession · Build-upGK + 4 v 3 (+ 2 mini-goals)40 x 50 m (defensive half)U12 to Senior4 x 4 mins
Organisation
- • Full-size goal with a goalkeeper; two mini-goals or an endline on the halfway line.
- • Two centre-backs and two full-backs against three pressing attackers.
- • Every sequence restarts with a goal kick or pass from the goalkeeper.
Rules
- • Build-up team scores by dribbling across the endline or scoring into a mini-goal.
- • Pressing team scores into the full-size goal upon winning possession.
- • If the build-up team fails to break through within 8 seconds, the pressing team earns a point.
- • Goalkeeper must play out with their feet; no long balls allowed.
Coaching points
- • Centre-backs split wide to the edges of the 18-yard box.
- • Goalkeeper acts as the overload: maintain an open body shape facing the pitch.
- • Exploit the 4v3 overload: find the spare man once the first presser commits.
- • Step in and drive forward into space when unpressured.
Variations
- • Easier: 4+GK v 2.
- • Harder: 4+GK v 4 with an extra player added to the build-up team.
- • Add a holding midfielder (pivot) who can drop deep to support the build-up.