Warm-up drill
4v1 Rondo Box
Four players keep the ball around the outside of a small square while one defender tries to win it. A classic first touch and body-shape warm-up that gets everyone on the ball immediately.
- 5–6 players
- 10 minutes
- 10 × 10 m
- Beginner · All ages
Objective
Receive on the back foot, open the body and move the ball before the defender can close the angle.
Coaching points
- Open your hips so you can see both team-mates before the ball arrives
- Pass into the foot furthest from the defender
- Move along your line to create a passing angle when blocked
- Defender: curve your run to cut off one passing option
Progressions
- Two-touch limit, then one-touch
- Add a second defender (4v2) and enlarge the box to 12 × 12 m
- Award a point for a split pass between two defenders
Regressions
- Unlimited touches
- Defender is passive (intercept only)
- Enlarge the square
Equipment
4 cones, 1 ball, 1 bib
Tactical relevance
Builds the receiving habits needed to play out under pressure in midfield.
Technical focus
First touch, Passing, Body shape
Tactical focus
Angles of support