1v1 Four-Gate Directional Duel
One attacker and one defender face off in a small rectangular area with four small gates — one in each corner. The attacker aims to beat the defender and dribble under control through any gate. The defender tries to win the ball; on regain, roles immediately reverse. Multiple gates force scanning, direction changes, and acceleration into free space. Run parallel instances when squad size allows.
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Organization
One attacker starts with the ball. One defender starts opposite or slightly offset. The attacker may score by dribbling under control through any of the four gates positioned in the corners. The defender attempts to win the ball. If the defender wins possession, roles immediately reverse and the defender can attack any available gate. The multiple gates force the player to scan, recognise defender position, change direction, protect the ball and accelerate into free space. Continuous short duels. Run parallel instances when squad size allows.
Coaching Points
Scan defender and gates before first action. Attack defender with speed. Keep ball within playing distance. Use body feints and changes of direction. Recognise when defender overcommits. Accelerate after beating defender. Protect ball with body. Change target gate when space closes. Defender stays balanced and delays. React immediately after possession changes.
Progressions
- Reduce area
- Narrower gates
- Point only after beating defender before gate
- Weak-foot dribbling bonus
- 5-second attack limit
Regressions
- Larger area
- Wider gates
- Defender starts 1–2m deeper
- No time limit
- Attacker starts slightly closer to a gate
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