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4v3 Counterattack — Find the Free Runner

A transition exercise that challenges four attackers to exploit a 4v3 advantage and find the free runner at the correct moment.

Use a 4v3 counterattack to identify the unmarked runner and progress to goal before defensive recovery.
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Counter
Players
8
Duration
17 min
Goalkeepers
1
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Bibs
Difficulty
Intermediate
Age group
U12–U18
Category
Transition
Type
Transition

Organization

Use a 40x30m area toward goal. Four attackers start with possession against three defenders. Rotate groups after each attack. Encourage wide and central starting positions.

Coaching Points

Carry forward to commit a defender | Scan for the player left free | Support at different heights | Time the final pass late | Finish while the defence is unbalanced

Progressions

  • Add a recovering defender entering after three seconds.

Regressions

  • Start defenders deeper and give attackers more width.

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