Breaking Down Small-Sided Play - 2 v 2

Course: How To Coach Technique
Section: 06 - Breaking Down Small-Sided Play
Subsection: 04 - 2 v 2
Page URL: https://www.skool.com/coachingacademy/classroom/e979bc11?md=4e136d872d3e482b84a14fbb876bc237
Screenshot: 2v2.png

Two v Two

Attacking

Important Concepts

• Width – Attacking Players Split to Create Space: Maintain spacing between attackers to stretch the defensive pair and open passing or dribbling lanes.
• Support from the Second Attacker to the First: The second attacker must position themselves to provide a passing option or exploit gaps left by the defenders.
• Penetration – Drive at Goal: The primary ball carrier should aim to drive forward to force defensive reactions and create opportunities for their teammate.
• Disguise – Delay Intention to Dribble or Pass Until as Late as Possible: Use body language and feints to mislead defenders and keep them guessing.

Helpful Coaching Points

• First Attacker Commits Defender: The ball carrier should engage one defender to create a numerical advantage for the supporting attacker.
• Dribbling Techniques: Use 1v1 dribbling skills to unbalance the defender and create opportunities for combinations (see 1v1 techniques).
• Passing Techniques: Ensure accurate and timely passes, focusing on angles, speed, and offside awareness.
• Overlap – Communication / Pass: Use overlapping or underlapping runs to confuse defenders and open space for shots or crosses.
• Positional Rotation: Attackers can interchange positions to disrupt the defensive pair’s organisation and create unpredictability.
• Quick Decision-Making: React swiftly to defensive adjustments to maintain the attacking advantage.

Defending

Important Concepts

• First Defender Delays and Denies Space: The primary defender should aim to slow down the attack and prevent the ball carrier from gaining momentum.
• Body Position – Channel Opponent, Isolate First Attacker: Use an angled stance to push the ball carrier into less dangerous areas and separate them from their teammate.
• Second Defender Supports Team Mate and Offers Depth and Cover: The supporting defender should stay slightly deeper, ready to intervene if the first defender is beaten.

Helpful Coaching Points

• Avoid Being Split Too Far: Maintain a compact defensive shape to deny passing lanes and prevent attackers from isolating one defender.
• Second Defender Be Aware of Second Attacker’s Position: Track the supporting attacker to cut off potential passes or runs into dangerous areas.
• First Defender Tries to Deny Pass: Block passing lanes to force the ball carrier into less threatening actions.
• Both Defenders Position Themselves in Relation to Goal: Stay goal-side and maintain an angle that limits the attackers’ options.
• Communicate with Each Other: Ensure constant verbal and non-verbal communication to coordinate movements and marking responsibilities.
• Awareness of Offside: Use the offside rule strategically to reduce the options available to the attackers.
• Delayed Aggression: Wait for the right moment to challenge and avoid overcommitting too early.

General Considerations

• Psychological Aspect: Encourage attackers to be creative and confident in combinations, while defenders should remain composed and disciplined under pressure.
• Drill Suggestions: Use drills that mimic 2v2 situations in different areas of the pitch, focusing on overload scenarios and defensive recovery.
• Game-Specific Context: Teach players how to adapt their approach in 2v2 situations, such as on the wings, in central areas, or during transitions.

Key Teaching Focus

• Balanced numerical scenarios requiring coordination and teamwork
• Importance of spacing and positional relationship between pairs
• Communication essential for both attacking and defending success
• Strategic use of disguise and delayed decision-making