6v6+1 Central Relay — Every Switch Must Touch the Joker

A directional possession game where teams can circulate freely on one side, but a complete switch across the pitch only counts if the central joker is involved in the transfer.

Use a central neutral as the mandatory relay whenever possession changes from one side of the pitch to the other.
Sign In

Save time planning sessions with FUTNIVO.

487910115638910Left laneCentralRight laneJoker
Players
13
Duration
15 min
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Bibs
Difficulty
Advanced
Age group
U12–U18
Category
Possession
Type
Possession

Organization

Use a 34x28m area divided into left, central and right lanes. Play 6v6 with one neutral restricted to the central lane. When the ball moves from left lane to right lane or vice versa, the neutral must touch the ball during the switch.

Coaching Points

Joker constantly adjusts to stay visible | Far-side players open before the relay receives | Do not force the central pass if the lane is closed | Use short circulation to move defenders first | Joker plays with body shape that sees both sides

Progressions

  • Limit the central joker to one touch.

Regressions

  • Allow direct switches but award double when the joker is used.

Related Soccer Drills

Explore more FUTNIVO coaching tools

Plan full training sessions, build lineups and create your own drills.

Your privacy matters

FUTNIVO uses optional analytics cookies to understand how the website is used and improve our coaching tools. Necessary cookies required for the website to work are always enabled.