Week 7 - Beating the Goalkeeper

Module: Master The Opponent: 7-12 Years Old Classroom: Use The 360TFT Game Model Original Location: https://www.skool.com/coachingacademy/classroom/62d426ee

Session Focus

Beating the Goalkeeper

Developing composure and technique in 1v1 situations with the goalkeeper. This week focuses on reading the goalkeeper’s position, choosing the right finish, and executing under pressure. Players learn to stay calm in the most pressurised scoring moments.

Building technical finishing ability and decision-making when through on goal.

Structure & Flow of Session

1. Ball Mastery Warm-Up (10 mins)

Finishing Touches

Ball mastery with finishing focus - touches, turns, and shots. Develop the technical foundation for composed finishing.

• Various finishing techniques
• Near post, far post, chip, placement
• Focus on technique not power

Coach Prompts:

• “Where do you want the ball to end up?”
• “What part of the foot for accuracy?”
• “Are you leaning over the ball?”

2. Contextual Game Scenario (15 mins)

1v1 vs Goalkeeper

Repeated 1v1 situations against a goalkeeper. Players approach from various angles and distances.

• Vary starting positions
• Include recovering defenders
• Reward composure and technique

Coach Prompts:

• “Where is the goalkeeper positioned?”
• “What finish gives you the best chance?”
• “Did you take your time or rush?”

3. Small Sided Game (15 mins)

Breakaway Game

SSG designed to create frequent 1v1 situations with the goalkeeper. Through balls, over-the-top passes, and counter-attacks.

• Set up to encourage breakaways
• Goalkeeper plays out
• Celebrate composed finishes

Coach Prompts:

• “Did you read the goalkeeper’s position?”
• “What options did you have?”
• “Were you calm when you got through?”

4. Match-Related Play (15-20 mins)

4v4 with GKs

Full game with goalkeepers. Coach observes finishing opportunities and provides positive reinforcement.

• Regular goalkeeping rotations
• Note finishing quality
• Praise composure under pressure

Key Coaching Points

Beating the Goalkeeper:

• Assess goalkeeper position early
• Make goalkeeper commit first
• Keep the ball on the ground when possible
• Side-foot for accuracy
• Stay calm - you have more time than you think

Finishing Options:

• Placement (open space)
• Round the keeper
• Chip (if GK rushes)
• Near post finish
• Far post finish
• Dink/lob

Why This Structure Works

• Technical preparation in warm-up
• High repetition 1v1 vs GK practice
• Applied in SSG with natural breakaways
• Real game finishing in match play

This content is part of the 360TFT Football Coaching Academy - Use The 360TFT Game Model