Euro 2016 Training Drills: Portugal

Play Like Portugal – Fast Attacking

1. Football Tag

• 3 teams
• 1 team = catchers
• 1 team = dodgers
• 1 team = the releasers (ball each)
• The dodgers escape the catchers by performing football related movements
• If the dodger is caught they freeze and form a bridge with their legs
• The releaser must dribble the ball and nutmeg the dodger to free them back into the game
• The game stops when all of the dodgers have been frozen at the same time

Key Tip

• Check shoulders and stay alert

2. 1 v1

• 3 pop up goals
• 3 ‘break out gates’ traffic cones
• 2 poles to mark out scoring zone
• Players are separated in 2 different lines, alternately placed as in the diagram
• Each player has a ball
• To score a valid goal the attacker must score in 1 of the 2 pop up goals once passed the score zone line
• As soon as an attempt at a goal is made the attackers instantly becomes a defender and the next attacker drives with the ball at the spare pop up goal, the process repeats itself
• If the defender wins possession of the ball, they counter attack and run the ball through the gated area (traffic cones)
• The defender player must be reminded that after they finish the sequence to bring the ball back to the queue.

Adaptations

• Bring the goals closer together to create a more competitive 1 v 1 battle
• 2 v 1 sequence: attack – defend – support – collect ball

Key Tips

• Attack quickly
• Assess the developing situation and alter the decision accordingly in relation to the defenders starting position, body shape and running momentum
• Express yourself

3. Attacking in 2’s

• Players are split into 2 teams – 1 team attacks north, the other south
• Players will always attack in 2;s
• Players can only score in the ‘score zone’ marked by poles

1. Golden Rules – The player who shoots must touch the ‘bar or post’ before they rejoin the game and defend
2. Once the attacking team have scored/ missed the other team attack straight away – leaving a 2 v 1 situation with a RECOVERING DEFENDER
3. Players will always finish back at their end and swap sides each go
4. Coach varies which side (right or left) the ball starts from

Key Tips

• Attack with pace and intent before the recovery defender rejoins to make a 2 v 2
• Pass only if your team mate is in a better scoring position than you!
• Promote counter attacking when the ball is turned over