Top 8 Small Sided Games That Actually Improve Your Players
Small-Sided Games give players more touches, more decisions, and more realism. Here are the 8 most effective SSGs and how to coach them for maximum player improvement.
Why Small-Sided Games Work (When They’re Coached Properly)
Small-Sided Games (SSGs) give players:
- More touches per player
- More repeated decisions
- More realism and transition moments
- Clear game-like consequences
The best SSGs aren’t just about playing. They’re about solving space, pressure, tempo, and movement.
The 8 Games and Why They Matter
1. 1v1 to Goal - Dribbling and Finishing
One player attacks, one defends. Two goals at either end. Helps players get confident attacking defenders directly.
Key Coaching Points:
- Encourage direct running at defender
- Focus on change of pace and direction
- Emphasize quick finishing under pressure
2. 2v2+2 - Playing Off Movement
Two teams of two with two neutral players. Focus on support play, movement angles, and combinations.
Key Coaching Points:
- Quick support movement after passing
- Creating angles for receiving passes
- Using neutral players effectively
3. 3v3+1 - Defensive Compactness and Pressing
Three versus three with a joker player. Forces defending side to press together or collapse space.
Key Coaching Points:
- Coordinated pressing triggers
- Maintaining defensive shape
- Quick transitions when winning possession
4. 4v4+2 - Switching the Point of Attack
Two neutral players as bounce players. Teaches width, switching play, and using the third man.
Key Coaching Points:
- Recognizing when to switch play
- Using wide players effectively
- Third man running patterns
5. 5v5+2 - Central Overload
One joker in the middle as a pivot. Teaches playing into central zones and efficient support.
Key Coaching Points:
- Playing through central areas
- Supporting the pivot player
- Creating overloads in midfield
6. 6v6 - Finding Pockets in Tight Spaces
Two teams of six in a tight pitch. Develops scanning, first touch under pressure, and support movement.
Key Coaching Points:
- Constant scanning before receiving
- Quality first touch under pressure
- Creating space through movement
7. 7v7+1 - False 9 Play and Central Support
Joker as central support. Develops linking midfield to attack and creating central overloads.
Key Coaching Points:
- Dropping deep to link play
- Creating space for others
- Timing of forward runs
8. 8v8+2 - Coordinated Pressing
Ball starts on one side, transferred through jokers. Coaches rest defense, pressing triggers, and group compactness.
Key Coaching Points:
- Coordinated team pressing
- Maintaining defensive compactness
- Quick counter-attacking transitions
How To Coach These SSGs Effectively
Use short interventions. Freeze, ask questions, reset. Prompt players with questions like:
- “Where is the space?”
- “Who can help you?”
- “What happens if you do that?”
- “Can you find a better solution?”
Implementation Tips
Start Simple: Begin with basic versions and add complexity gradually
Set Clear Objectives: Each game should target specific skills or tactical concepts
Use Progressive Overloads: Increase pressure, reduce space, or add time constraints
Connect to the Game: Always explain how the SSG relates to 11v11 situations
Conclusion
Small-sided games are only as effective as the coaching that accompanies them. Focus on one or two key learning outcomes per session, ask good questions, and give players time to find solutions.
Remember: The best SSGs challenge players to solve problems, not just run around.
Want more systematic coaching methods? Check out the 360TFT Game Model for complete player development frameworks.