4v3 - Breaking Down Small-Sided Play

Four v Three

Create Width: Spread out attackers to stretch the defence and open up spaces for passes, dribbles, or runs.
Support the Player on the Ball: Off-the-ball players should position themselves to provide immediate passing options or space for the ball carrier to exploit.
Penetration – Drive to the Goal: Focus on direct play towards the goal, using a combination of runs, dribbles, or passes to create scoring opportunities.
Decision Making: Assess the defensive setup to determine whether to dribble, pass, or shoot, ensuring the best possible outcome for the attack.

Move the Ball Quickly, No Aimless Passes: Ensure passes have purpose, keeping the defenders constantly adjusting and under pressure.
Try to Create 1v1 or 2v1 Situations: Use spacing and movement to isolate defenders, creating numerical advantages in specific areas.
First Attacker Moves to Commit Defender: The ball carrier should draw one defender out, opening space for supporting players to exploit.
Supporting Players Create Angles: Off-the-ball players should adjust their positions to provide optimal passing options or overloads.
Switch Play When Necessary: Recognise when to move the ball across the field to exploit weak defensive positioning.
Combination Play: Use short, quick passes such as one-twos or overlaps to break down the defensive structure.
Exploit Overloads: Identify where the numerical advantage exists and concentrate attacking efforts there.
Communication Among Attackers: Use clear verbal and non-verbal signals to coordinate movement and decision-making.

First Defender Denies Space and Channels First Attacker: The primary defender should angle their approach to guide the attacker into less dangerous areas.
Delay Opponent – Don’t Over Commit, the Onus Is on the Attacker: Focus on slowing the attack to allow teammates to recover and organise.
Awareness of Opponents’ Movements: Track all attacking players’ movements to anticipate passes and block critical spaces effectively.

Direct First Attacker Away from Goal: Use body positioning to force the ball carrier into wide or less dangerous areas.
Defend in Relation to Goal: Ensure defenders stay compact and protect the most critical spaces near the goal.
Communicate with Teammates: Share information about attacker movements and assign marking responsibilities to maintain organisation.
Avoid Being Split – No 1v1s: Stay compact to deny attackers the opportunity to isolate defenders in 1v1 situations.
Priority Given to Players Closest to Goal: Focus on marking the players most likely to score or create direct threats.
First Defender Tries to Deny Pass: Block passing lanes while engaging the ball carrier to limit attacking options.
Awareness of Offside: Use the offside trap effectively when appropriate to reduce the attacking team’s options.
Decide When to Press the Ball: Recognise moments when applying pressure will disrupt the attack or force an error.
Recovery Runs: Ensure that defenders who are out of position recover quickly to maintain the defensive structure.

Psychological Aspect: Encourage attackers to remain confident and creative when using the numerical advantage, and defenders to stay disciplined and work together under pressure.
Drill Suggestions: Set up drills that replicate 4v3 scenarios in different parts of the pitch, focusing on attacking overloads and defensive recovery strategies.
Game-Specific Context: Teach players to adapt their approach based on where the 4v3 occurs, such as on the wings, in the central areas, or during counter-attacks.