3-Zone Game: Creating Midfield Overloads
7v7 small-sided game divided into three zones. Play must progress through midfield, where a defender can step out to create an overload.
In possession · Midfield progression7v7 + 2 goalkeepers60 x 40 m divided into 3 zonesU13 to Seniors3 x 6 mins
Organisation
- • Pitch measuring 60 x 40 m, divided into three 20 m zones.
- • Per team: 3 defenders, 2 midfielders, and 2 forwards locked into their respective zones.
- • Two full-size goals with goalkeepers.
Rules
- • The ball cannot be played directly from the defensive to the attacking zone without passing through midfield.
- • One defender can step up into the midfield zone in possession to create a 3v2 overload.
- • Upon transition / loss of possession, the defender must recover immediately to their defensive zone.
- • Goals scored following an overload count for 2 points.
Coaching points
- • Defenders: drive into midfield if your opponent doesn't track you.
- • Midfielders: create space for the stepping defender.
- • Find the free man and play forward quickly.
- • Rest defence: who provides cover when a defender drives forward?
Variations
- • Easier: allow two players to step out into the next zone.
- • Harder: maximum 3 touches per player.
- • Free play: remove the zones after 10 minutes to see if the pattern persists naturally.