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TOUCHLINELAB

Transition drill

Counter-Press: Five-Second Game

A possession game where the team that loses the ball has five seconds to win it back. If they do, they score a bonus point. Builds the reflex to react the instant possession is lost.

  • 12–16 players
  • 18 minutes
  • 40 × 35 m
  • Advanced · U17+ / Adult
Counter-Press: Five-Second Game drill diagram5 seconds to win it back1234512345

Objective

React immediately on transition: nearest player presses, the next two cover the passing lanes.

Coaching points

  • First player presses the ball at speed, curving to block a lane
  • Second and third players cut off the nearest passing options
  • Team in possession: first pass out of pressure goes forward or wide
  • Stay compact in possession so you are close enough to counter-press

Progressions

  • Reduce to three seconds
  • Score by dribbling through an end line after regaining
  • Add small goals to counter into

Regressions

  • Extend to eight seconds
  • Add a neutral player

Equipment

4 cones, bibs, balls around the area

Tactical relevance

The foundation of an aggressive pressing identity.

Technical focus

Pressing technique, Passing under pressure

Tactical focus

Counter-pressing, Compactness