6v6 Counterpress Possession

Two balanced teams play possession. When a team loses the ball, the nearest player immediately presses, nearby players close short passing options, and the team becomes compact around the loss zone to protect central space and regain possession within approximately 5 seconds. If the opponent escapes the counterpress, normal possession continues and roles reverse. Continuous play.

Maintain possession and react immediately after losing the ball with an aggressive short counterpress to regain possession before the opponent can escape.
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Players
12
Duration
14 min
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Bibs
Difficulty
Intermediate
Age group
U12+
Category
Possession
Type
Possession

Organization

Two balanced teams play possession. After losing possession, the nearest player immediately presses the ball, nearby players close short passing options, the team becomes compact around the loss zone, protects central space, and attempts to regain within approximately 5 seconds. If the opponent escapes the counterpress, normal possession continues and roles reverse. Continuous play.

Coaching Points

React instantly after losing possession. Nearest player presses the ball. Second defender blocks the nearest exit. Protect central space first. Compress around the loss zone. Communicate immediately. Regain with controlled aggression. Reorganise quickly if the counterpress fails. In possession, create enough spacing to circulate. Anticipate possible loss before it happens.

Progressions

  • 2-touch possession
  • 4-second regain window
  • Bonus for regain + 3 completed passes
  • Smaller pitch
  • Opponent earns bonus for escaping counterpress

Regressions

  • Larger pitch
  • Unlimited touches
  • 6-second regain window
  • Neutral unlimited touches
  • Lower tempo

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