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CommunicationGameTactics

Simple organisation call in a small-sided game

Introduce a single, fixed, simple call within a small-sided game, so the young goalkeeper starts associating communication with defensive organisation without overloading the decision with complex vocabulary.

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Load

minutes
12
dives/set
2
Sets and reps
2 × 1
Intensity
Medium

dives per set, per goalkeeper

Microcycle days it fits

MD-4, MD-3

Each bar’s height is that day’s dive ceiling.

Setup

Goalkeepers
1
server
0
outfield player
5

Space: 20 × 15 m

Equipment: Balls, Mini goals, Bibs

The coach serves and manages the breaks.

1 steps

A small-sided game with the goalkeeper inside the action. Whenever defensive teammates need to reorganise, the goalkeeper uses the same simple word, repeatedly, until it becomes automatic.

Exercise sequence

Coaching points

  • The word stays the same, so the habit forms before asking for vocabulary variety.
  • The call goes out while teammates still have time to react, not once the threat is already close.
  • Don’t penalise over-communication at this age — too much talking beats silence.
  • Praise the timing of the call as much as its content, to reinforce timing early.

Progressions

  1. Introduce a second word for a different situation.
  2. Increase the pace of play.

Regressions

  1. Briefly pause the game for the coach to suggest the right call.
  2. Reduce the number of outfield players.

Sources · 2

  1. StudyAsín-Izquierdo, Gutiérrez-García e Galiano, «Application of technology for the analysis of Small-Sided Games in football. From complexity to chaos in training design: Reference to number of players, playing space, orientation, time distribution, directionality with goalkeepers, and feedback» (2024)
  2. CurriculumTechnical Coaching Points: Goalkeeping, Minnesota Youth Soccer Association