Core Topic 4: 1v1 Attacking
Module: Master The Opponent: 7-12 Years Old Classroom: Use The 360TFT Game Model Original Location: https://www.skool.com/football-coaching-academy-5676/classroom
TLDR
Being able to beat a defender 1v1 changes everything. It creates overloads, breaks defensive lines, and shifts momentum. At this age, I want players to recognise when they’re in a 1v1 and have the confidence and tools to go for it. But beating a player isn’t just about flair or footwork, it’s about reading the defender, picking the right moment, and executing with purpose.
I help players scan before receiving to see where the space and defender are because the decision often happens before the ball arrives. I coach tempo changes showing how to lure, pause, and accelerate since change of pace beats defenders more than the move itself. I give players a toolkit of 3-4 reliable options because simple, repeatable moves beat 20 tricks they can’t execute under pressure.
The 1v1 moment breaks down into before contact (scan for space, assess defender’s position), the approach (draw defender in, keep ball close), the move (change pace, commit fully), and the exit (accelerate immediately, protect the ball).
Progressive development moves from static start with ball at feet, to receiving to attack simulating transitions, to back to goal under pressure, to game realistic 1v1s within small-sided games. Essential moves include cut inside/outside, stop and go, step over, and drag back, with more advanced options when ready.
Why This Topic Matters
Being able to beat a defender 1v1 changes everything. It creates overloads, breaks defensive lines, and shifts momentum.
At this age, we want players to recognise when they’re in a 1v1 and have the confidence and tools to go for it.
But beating a player isn’t just about flair or footwork. It’s about reading the defender, picking the right moment, and executing with purpose. This topic teaches players how to do just that.
How We Coach It
We help players scan before receiving
Where’s the space, and where’s the defender? The decision often happens before the ball arrives.
We coach tempo changes
How to lure, pause, and accelerate. The change of pace beats defenders more than the move itself.
We give players a toolkit of simple, repeatable moves
3-4 reliable options beat 20 tricks they can’t execute under pressure.
We encourage decision-making
When to take them on, and when to play. Not every situation needs a dribble.
We use 1v1 setups that mirror match moments: receiving facing forward, receiving under pressure, attacking from the side. It’s not just about beating a cone, it’s about beating a real opponent who’s trying to win the ball. Some players thrive on this challenge, others need gradual confidence building.
What Success Looks Like
Think of Eden Hazard in his prime, not just trickery, but timing. He slows the defender down, shifts his weight, then bursts.
We want our players to feel comfortable inviting pressure, and confident attacking it. The best attackers don’t rush the 1v1. They control it.
The 1v1 Moment Breakdown
Before Contact
- Scan for space behind defender
- Assess defender’s body position
- Decide: beat them or play around them?
The Approach
- Draw defender in at moderate pace
- Keep ball in playing distance
- Head up to read defender’s movement
The Move
- Change pace (slow to fast usually works best)
- Commit to the move fully
- Use body to sell the deception
The Exit
- Accelerate immediately after beating defender
- Get your body between defender and ball
- Look for next action (pass, shoot, continue)
Different players excel at different parts. Help them find their strengths.
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Always tries to beat everyone | Introduce consequence. If you lose it 1v1, opponent gets a point. |
| Never attempts to beat anyone | Start with passive defenders. Build success before adding pressure. |
| Only has one move | Gradually introduce variations, but master one before adding more. |
| Great in practice, timid in games | Celebrate attempts in matches, not just successes. Bravery matters. |
Progressive 1v1 Development
Stage 1: Static Start
Ball at feet, defender 2 yards away. Focus on first touch and acceleration.
Stage 2: Receiving to Attack
Ball played in, immediate 1v1. Simulates game transition moments.
Stage 3: Back to Goal
Receive under pressure, turn and attack. Most challenging scenario.
Stage 4: Game Realistic
1v1s within small-sided games. Natural situations, real consequences.
Progress at player’s pace. Some fly through stages, others need weeks at each level.
Essential Moves Toolkit
The Basics Most Players Should Master:
- Cut inside/outside (body feint and go)
- Stop and go (pause, then accelerate)
- Step over (one or double)
- Drag back/pull back (change direction)
When They’re Ready for More:
- Fake shot/pass
- Cruyff turn
- Elastico/flip-flap
- Roulette/Maradona turn
Focus on execution under pressure, not collecting moves.
Key Coaching Points
- “Slow them down, then go” (tempo change)
- “Commit their weight” (make defender plant foot)
- “Attack the front foot” (explosive direction change)
- “If you can’t go forward, keep it” (patience option)
- “Body between ball and defender” (protection after beating)
Some players respond to technical cues, others to imagery. Find what works.
Creating 1v1 Opportunities
In Training
- Dedicated 1v1 time each session (even just 10 minutes)
- Points for beating players in SSGs
- Wide channels in games that encourage 1v1s
- Reward brave attempts, not just success
Psychological Development
- Film successful 1v1s to build confidence
- Pair confident dribblers with cautious players
- Set personal challenges (beat 3 players today)
- Normalise losing the ball as part of learning
Remember, some players are natural dribblers, others need patient encouragement.
This content is part of the 360TFT Football Coaching Academy - Use The 360TFT Game Model