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TOUCHLINELAB

Tactical drill

Build-Up vs High Press (6v4)

Goalkeeper, back four and a holding midfielder play out against four pressing players. Defenders score by dribbling over the halfway line; the pressing team scores in the big goal.

  • 11–13 players
  • 20 minutes
  • Defensive half
  • Advanced · U17+ / Adult
Build-Up vs High Press (6v4) drill diagramGKCBCBFBFBDM1234

Objective

Use the goalkeeper and the split centre-backs to create a spare player and play through or around the press.

Coaching points

  • Centre-backs split wide, full-backs push higher
  • Holding midfielder positions behind the first presser's cover shadow, then moves to free himself
  • Goalkeeper is an extra passer — calm, open body
  • Recognise the trigger to go long when the press is too strong

Progressions

  • Add a fifth presser (6v5)
  • Limit the goalkeeper to two touches
  • Add a target player beyond halfway

Regressions

  • Remove one presser (6v3)
  • Pressing players start further away

Equipment

Full-size goal, cones for end line, balls

Tactical relevance

Reproduces goal-kick and restart build-up against a front-foot opponent.

Technical focus

Passing under pressure, Receiving on the half-turn

Tactical focus

Building out from the back, Creating a free player, Beating the first line of pressure