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TOUCHLINELAB

Small-sided game drill

4v4 to Four Mini Goals

A small-sided game where each team defends two mini goals and attacks two. Constant decisions about which goal to attack encourage players to look up and switch the point of attack.

  • 8–10 players
  • 20 minutes
  • 30 × 20 m
  • Intermediate · U10–U12
4v4 to Four Mini Goals drill diagram12341234

Objective

Recognise the less-protected goal and move the ball there quickly.

Coaching points

  • Get your head up before receiving
  • Overload one goal, then switch to the other
  • Defend as a unit: protect the goal nearest the ball
  • Quick restarts keep the intensity high

Progressions

  • Goals only count after a switch of play
  • Two-touch limit
  • Add a floater for the team in possession

Regressions

  • Larger area
  • Any goal counts

Equipment

4 mini goals, cones, bibs, balls

Tactical relevance

Teaches width, weak-side awareness and transition in a game format.

Technical focus

Dribbling, Passing, Finishing

Tactical focus

Switching play, Width and depth