Drill Library
Defending

Shape Walk-Through — Defensive Block

Set the starting 11 in the defensive shape (4-3-3 or your base system)

Theme

Defending

Duration

20 min

Players (min–rec–max)

22–22–22

Equipment

cones, bibs, balls

Set-up

Set the starting 11 in the defensive shape (4-3-3 or your base system). Coach walks a ball around the attacking third at low tempo. Defenders shift and hold shape in response. No pressure — this is about picture-taking, not winning.

Coaching points

  • Compact shape: distance between lines no more than 15 yards.
  • Call and communicate — center backs set the line, midfielders adjust to them.
  • Every player tracks the ball; shape is collective, not individual.

Progressions

  • Add passive attackers who move the ball to simulate a real back-four shift.
  • Introduce one active presser to trigger the rest — when the press is on, everyone commits.