Breaking Down Small-Sided Play - 1 v 1

Course: How To Coach Technique
Section: 06 - Breaking Down Small-Sided Play
Subsection: 02 - 1 v 1
Page URL: https://www.skool.com/coachingacademy/classroom/e979bc11?md=0c06825b260242a5a97ff83f281a061f
Screenshot: 1v1.png
Video Duration: 1:09

One v One

Attacking

Important Concepts

• Penetration: Drive towards the defender with intent, aiming to get past them or create space for a shot or pass.
• Change of Pace: Accelerate or decelerate suddenly to unbalance the defender and gain an advantage.
• Close Control: Keep the ball tight to your feet, especially in tight spaces, to maintain control under pressure.
• Change of Direction: Use sharp turns or cuts to shift away from the defender and exploit open spaces.
• Awareness of Space and Opponent: Recognise gaps to exploit and read the defender’s positioning to identify weaknesses.
• Timing: Engage the defender at the right moment, ensuring you’re in a strong position to attack effectively.
• Creativity: Experiment with skill moves like feints, stepovers, or spins to confuse and beat the defender.
• Off-the-Ball Movement: Position yourself strategically before receiving the ball to create an advantage in the 1v1.

Helpful Coaching Points

• Ball Reception: Control the ball cleanly and position it to set up your next move effectively.
• Quick Feet Adjustment: Stay light on your feet to react swiftly to the defender’s movements.
• Disguise: Use body language to fake one direction before committing to another.
• Head Up: Maintain vision of the defender and your surroundings to make informed decisions.
• Commit the Defender: Draw the defender towards you to create space to exploit behind or to the side.
• Shield the Ball: Use your body to protect the ball, keeping it out of the defender’s reach.
• Cut Across / Eliminate Opponent: After beating the defender, move into their line to block their recovery.
• Use of Both Feet: Be confident dribbling, turning, and passing with both feet to keep the defender guessing.
• Acceleration: Explode into space once you’ve beaten the defender to maximise the advantage.

Defending

Important Concepts

• Deny Opponent Space and Time: Close down quickly to prevent the attacker from gaining momentum.
• Delay Opponent: Slow the attacker’s progress without overcommitting, forcing them to make a mistake.
• Body Position – Channel the Opponent: Angle your stance to guide the attacker into less dangerous areas.
• Anticipation: Watch the attacker’s movements closely to predict their next action.
• Patience: Stay composed and avoid diving in; wait for the right moment to challenge.
• Transition Play: Be ready to act quickly after a successful tackle, either by clearing the ball or initiating an attack.

Helpful Coaching Points

• Body Position – Low, Ready: Maintain a balanced stance with knees slightly bent to react quickly.
• Focus on the Ball: Watch the ball closely to avoid being tricked by the attacker’s body feints.
• Quick Feet Adjustment: Keep your feet active to stay in control during sudden movements.
• Assess Opportunity for “Quick Steal”: Look for moments when the ball is exposed to make a clean tackle.
• Close, Strong, Well-Timed Challenge: Commit firmly but only when you’re confident of winning the ball.
• Stay on Feet: Avoid sliding in unless absolutely necessary to minimise risk.
• Recover Quickly: If beaten, work hard to regain position and prevent further danger.
• Side-On Stance: Position yourself side-on to channel the attacker and maintain balance.
• Communication with Teammates: Use clear instructions to coordinate defensive efforts and ensure cover.
• Positioning to Avoid Fouls: Stay disciplined and rely on timing rather than physicality to make challenges.

General Considerations

• Psychological Aspect: Build confidence in attackers to take on defenders and encourage defenders to stay composed and resilient.
• Drill Suggestions: Use drills that replicate match scenarios, such as winger vs. full-back or attacker vs. central defender duels.
• Game-Specific Context: Tailor strategies based on where the 1v1 occurs on the pitch, focusing on different goals (e.g., breaking through in the final third vs. holding off an attacker near your penalty area).

Media Content

• Video: 1v1 demonstration (1:09 duration)
• Training scenario showing practical application of concepts

Key Teaching Focus

• Balance between attacking and defending principles
• Importance of psychological preparation alongside technical skills
• Context-specific application based on pitch position
• Match scenario replication in training